Dietary Patterns of Preschool Children (Aged 3–6) in Public Primary Schools of Avaradrano District in Antananarivo Madagascar: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional 24-Hour Dietary Recall Study
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background Malnutrition remains a major public health challenge in Madagascar, affecting nearly two out of five children under five years of age. Research on child nutrition provides nationally representative data on child health, anthropometry, dietary diversity, and feeding practices. This study provides updated, quantitative assessments of total energy and nutrient intake among preschool children, with a detailed analysis of daily dietary composition. In addition, particular attention has been given to the contribution of snacks to children's daily diets. Methods Cross-sectional dietary data were collected from 253 children aged 3 to 6 years via the 24-hour dietary recall method. This approach allowed for the estimation of the types and quantities of foods consumed by participants during the 24 hours preceding the survey. The nutritional value of foods was estimated via data from the CIQUAL food composition table (French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety), which is supported by relevant literature. Data processing was conducted via R statistical software version 4.5.1 (2025-06-13, UCRT). Results The median energy intake was 1061 kcal (95% CI: 1003—1122). On average, carbohydrates provided 69% of the total energy, with protein and fat contributing 12% and 15%, respectively. The mean dietary diversity score was 4.49 ± 1.20, reflecting a high consumption of cereals and starchy foods (99.6%) and a low intake of dairy products (4.7%). Nearly all the children (98%) consumed three meals per day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—while 2% skipped dinner. Snacking was common, with 98% of the children consuming at least one snack daily. Among those who snack, 25% did so only in the morning, whereas 4% had snacks exclusively in the afternoon. Conclusions Despite the consumption of meals and snacks, the nutritional and energy intake of the children aged 3–6 years remains below the recommended requirements for this age group, indicating a risk of nutrient deficiencies. Snacks play a significant role in children's diets and represent a valuable opportunity to increase the nutritional quality of their diet by contributing to energy intake and supplementing essential nutrient requirements.
Source: Research Square
Institution: University of Antananarivo
Language: English
Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics
Field: Nursing
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7223662838