Authors: Roxana Maria Hadmaş1, Adriana Neghirlă2, Ştefan Adrian Martin3
Affiliation: 1 Pediatrics I Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Târgu Mureș, Romania
2 School Physicians Association, Mureș county, Romania
3 Department of Physiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Târgu Mureș, Romania
Abstract
Background. Physical activity is fundamental to ensuring child and adult health. Regular sport activities can reduce the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disease, increasing the immune function in both adults and children.
Aim. The aim of the study was to analyze the characteristics of physical activity from kindergartens with an extended program and the menu plan adaption according to the type of sport activity carried out and its duration, intensity and frequency.
Methods. A retrospective observational study was conducted in Târgu Mureș, Romania, between June – July 2016. Within the study we included subjects enrolled in 11 kindergartens with an extended program from the city. We had a sample of 1856 subjects, aged between 2.5 and 6 years. The data considered of interest were related to the sport duration (min), frequency (number of classes per week), type of activity, food plan and nutritional values of the menu.
Results. Thirty minutes of mandatory physical activity were scheduled during a day, consisting of gymnastics. For optional sports activities, the children attended dance, swimming, zumba or gymnastics classes under the guidance of a qualified coach. The duration of an optional activity was between 30-60 min/week. During the days with the dance program there was a significant increase in fat consumption. In the case of other macronutrients, no significant differences were observed.
Conclusions. It is necessary to improve sport activities, both mandatory and optional, and to adapt the food plan within the institutions according to the sustained activity and its characteristics.
Keywords: children, sport, nutrition, kindergarten.
https://doi.org/10.26659/pm3.2017.18.4.196
Children’s nutrition specificity related to general sporting activities practiced in indergartens
English 
Română 
