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THE Department of Health and Ageing has conducted the first Australian National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey. The survey involved over 4000 children aged between 2-16 years from all over Australia with the aim to assess the food and nutrient intake, and physical activity participation among Australian children. This survey is the first of its kind in Australia and can help to provide a snapshot of the current children's health status.
The survey found that:
- 72% of children surveyed were classified as within the healthy weight range and 23% of children were overweight or obese.
- On the day of the survey, 69% of children met the National Physical Activity Guidelines (at least one hour of moderate - vigorous activity each day).
- The average time spent doing moderate-vigorous physical activity decreased with age.
- 61% of 4-8 year old children consumed adequate daily fruit levels.
- Only 1% of children aged 14-16 years consumed adequate levels of fruit and 5% of 14-16 year olds meet the dietary guidelines for vegetable intake.
- The saturated fat intake for children in all age groups was higher than the recommended 10% of total energy intake.
- Sugar consumption increased with age and well exceeded the recommended contribution to total energy intake.
- Older children (14-16 years) were not likely to meet their dietary requirements for calcium and magnesium.
The results from this survey have highlighted some significant micronutrient deficiencies in Australian children and demonstrates the importance of collecting up to date food and nutrition, and physical activity information. These findings should also stimulate action from government, food industry, health professionals and other stakeholders to promote physical activity and healthy foods to children which can act to prevent lifestyle diseases such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The full findings from the survey can be found:
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