Resumen:
Objective:To assess whether the Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) is associated with lower micronutrients inadequacy in a sample of Spanish preschoolers.Design:We conducted a cross-sectional study with 4-5-year-old children participating in the SENDO project. Information was gathered through an online questionnaire completed by parents. Dietary information was collected with a previously validated semi-quantitative FFQ. The estimated average requirements or adequate intake levels as proposed by the Institute of Medicine were used as cut-off point to define inadequate intake.Statistical analyses:Crude and multivariable adjusted estimates were calculated with generalised estimated equations to account for intra-cluster correlation between siblings.Participants:We used baseline information of 1153 participants enrolled in the SENDO project between January 2015 and June 2022.Main outcomes measures:OR and 95 % CI of presenting an inadequate intake of >= 3 micronutrients associated with the MedDiet.Results:The adjusted proportion of children with inadequate intake of >= 3 micronutrients was 27 center dot 2 %, 13 center dot 5 % and 8 center dot 1 % in the categories of low, medium and high adherence to the MedDiet, respectively. After adjusting for all potential confounders, children who had a low adherence to the MedDiet showed a significant lower odds of inadequate intake of >= 3 micronutrients compared to those with a high adherence (OR 9 center dot 85; 95 % CI 3 center dot 33, 29 center dot 09).Conclusion:Lower adherence to the MedDiet is associated with higher odds of nutritional inadequacy.
