Longitudinal Study of Nutrient Intakes in Infants Aged 12 to 18 Months

Abstract

Objective. To examine the nutrient intakes in young children and to compare their intakes with the dietary reference intakes (DRIs). Design. Longitudinal study observing the child’s food and beverage intakes as he or she grows from 12 to 18 months. Methods. Three interviewer-administered 24-hour dietary recalls over 1 week were collected from the mother to assess the child’s intakes at 12 and 18 months of age. Intakes were calculated at the 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 90th percentiles and compared with the DRIs to determine the proportions below and above cutoff values. Results. Nutrient intakes met or exceeded energy and nutrient requirements, with some exceptions. Diets were deficient in healthy fats, iron, fiber, and potassium and excessive in calories, synthetic folate, preformed vitamin A, zinc, and sodium. Conclusions. Health professionals should emphasize foods that are nutrient dense while decreasing highly processed foods for children.