Varying Body Composition and Growth in Indian Adolescents from Different Socioeconomic Strata

Background: Early growth stunting has been associated with modifications in body composition and its direction differs with the local environment. Data on the association between body composition with growth and the influence of socioeconomic strata (SES) on the same is scarce in Indian adolescents. Objectives: The study aimed to examine (i) the associations of SES with body composition and growth (ii) the relationship between body composition and lifestyle factors (physical activity, diet) across SES and (iii) interrelationship between the body composition and growth. Methods: A cross-sectional study on apparently healthy adolescents (10-14years, n=604) from different SES, was conducted in Gujarat, Western India. Outcome parameters included anthropometry, body composition, moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and dietary intake. Results: 84%, 66% and 39% boys, whereas 61%, 43% and 26% girls from upper, middle and lower SES respectively, were underfat; amongst upper SES, 22% boys and 8% girls were obese (p
Source: Current Nutrition and Food Science - Category: Nutrition Source Type: research