Impact of Breakfast Consumption on Nutritional Status and Biochemical Markers in Sudanese School-Aged Children
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64149/J.Carcinog.24.6s.325-330Keywords:
Adzuki beans, BMI, Breakfast, hemoglobin, nutritional intervention, schoolchildren, Sudan, and vitamin A.Abstract
Background: Skipping breakfast among schoolchildren remains a persistent nutritional challenge in developing countries, impacting micronutrient deficiencies and undernutrition.
Objective: To evaluate the effect of a school-based breakfast intervention on hemoglobin levels, vitamin A status, BMI, and macronutrient intake among students in Khartoum State, Sudan.
Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 294 students aged 6–14 years. Data were collected before and after the intervention on hemoglobin levels, vitamin A deficiency, BMI classification, and nutrient intake following a daily breakfast of Adzuki beans for eight months.
Results: The average hemoglobin increased from 10.88 to 12.35 g/dL (p<0.001). Vitamin A deficiency decreased from 25.5% to 1% (p<0.001). Severe thinness dropped from 29.3% to 0%, and normal BMI increased from 24.8% to 79%. Inadequate energy intake declined from 73.5% to 9.9%, while intake of protein, carbohydrate, and fat improved to over 91% adequacy.
Conclusion: The breakfast program significantly improved nutritional and biochemical indicators. These findings support the implementation of sustainable school breakfast programs to combat malnutrition among Sudanese children.
