Foods contributing to energy intake in the US: Data from NHANES III and NHANES 1999–2000

Current observations demonstrate that the efforts made towards halting the trends in obesity would be more efficient when coupled with information on responsible nutritional habits. In this analysis by Block (2004), the author attempted to outline the nutritional items comprising most of the population’s total energy intake, using data from two surveys: the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III, 1988-1994) and the NHANES (1999–2000). A total of 144 food items were identified and categorized into 23 groups, ranked according to their total energy contribution. The results revealed that soft drinks were the top contributors to energy intake (7.1%) in 1999-2000, while food group analysis showed that “Sweets, desserts” were responsible for most of the energy intake. In addition, the food categories “Sweets, desserts”, “Soft drinks” and “Alcoholic beverages” made up around 25% of total energy consumed despite being nutrient-poor in nature. The author concludes that these nutrient-poor foods should be targeted in both individual and public health policy capacities to help reduce obesity in the US. [NPID: Energy intake, diet, nutrition, food patterns, obesity]

Year: 2004

Reference: Block, G. (2004). Foods contributing to energy intake in the US: data from NHANES III and NHANES 1999-2000. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 17, 439-447.