Dietary patterns of Chinese children and adolescents and their associations with family characteristics and functioning: a multicenter cross-sectional study

Background Dietary patterns influence children and adolescents' health not only in the present but also in their adulthood. Family characteristics and functioning play a crucial role in food choices and are important modifiable factors for early interventions aimed at preventing unhealthy diets. ObjectiveThe study aimed to analyze the dietary patterns of Chinese children and adolescents and explore their associations with family characteristics and functioning. Methods 6276 participants aged 6 to 17 years were recruited for the multicenter cross-sectional study through cluster sampling. Food intake, family characteristics, and family function were assessed. Dietary patterns were identified through factor analysis based on food intake data, and a multiple logistic regression model was used to investigate the associations between dietary patterns, family characteristics, and family functioning. Results Three distinct dietary patterns were identified: the "Diverse dietary pattern" (characterized by a rich diet and balanced nutrition), the "Fast food concentrated dietary pattern" (primarily consisting of fried foods, sugary drinks, processed meats, and other junk food), and the "Traditional dietary pattern" (mainly vegetables and grains). Girls, those living in rural areas, and those with better family functioning were more likely to adhere to the "Diverse dietary pattern" (p < 0.01). Girls, primary school students, and those with lower educated mothers tended to have higher adherence to the "Traditional dietary pattern" (p < 0.01). High adherence to the "Fast food concentrated dietary pattern" were associated with boys, older age, Han ethnicity, family dysfunction, living with both parents, being an only-child, having a better educated father, lower family income, and higher pocket money (p < 0.01). Conclusion Children and adolescents from different family backgrounds exhibit distinct dietary patterns, highlighting the importance of early screening and intervention tailored to these varying family characteristics. Among the modifiable family factors, better family functioning stands out as a key area of focus for promoting and sustaining healthy dietary patterns in Chinese children and adolescents.