IMPACT OF DIETARY PATTERNS ON THE PREVALENCE OF MALNUTRITION AMONG SCHOOL AGE CHILDREN

Malnutrition remains a critical public health challenge affecting school-age children in developing countries, particularly in Nigeria, where dietary patterns heavily influence nutritional outcomes. This study investigated the impact of dietary patterns on the prevalence of malnutrition among school-age children at Muslim Primary School, Ilese, Ijebu North East Local Government Area, Ogun State. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 50 pupils aged 5–14 years through structured questionnaires (24-hour dietary recall and Food Frequency Questionnaire) and anthropometric measurements analyzed with WHO AnthroPlus software. The findings revealed a dietary pattern dominated by grains, cereals, and animal-based proteins during main meals but characterized by a high dependence on processed, sugary, and fried foods for snacks and lunches. Despite adequate protein intake, the low consumption of fruits and vegetables indicated poor dietary diversity. Anthropometric assessments showed a mean BMI of 19.13 (SD = 6.66), with a worrying prevalence of obesity (42%) and wasting (28%), reflecting a dual burden of malnutrition. A significant association between dietary risk and nutritional status was established (χ² = 11.40, p = 0.0097), confirming that unhealthy dietary patterns significantly influence both under nutrition and over nutrition. The study underscores the need for comprehensive nutrition education, enhanced school feeding programs, active parental engagement, and policy reforms to improve dietary diversity and combat malnutrition. These findings highlight the critical importance of context-specific interventions focused on promoting balanced dietary practices among children to ensure optimal growth, cognitive development, and long-term health. By addressing these challenges through community-driven and policy-based approaches, sustainable improvements in child nutrition and overall well-being can be achieved