Dietary pattern with more fruits and vegetables in children of recent U.S. immigrants is associated with better nutrient intake and weight status

Background and objectives: With increased time residing in the US, the risk for developing obesity is increased among immigrant adults and their children. It is unclear, however, if certain dietary patterns contribute to this risk. This study examines whether a more healthful dietary pattern is associated with improved nutrient intake and weight status in children of recent immigrants from Brazil, Haiti, and Latin American countries. Methods: This cross-sectional analysis used baseline data from children of families (n=239) who participated in Live Well, a randomized controlled trial targeting recent immigrant families in Greater Boston, MA., between 2009 and 2011. Food group and nutrient intake were assessed using the Block 2007 Food Screener. Children's weight and height were measured. Dietary patterns were derived from food group data using principal component analysis. Each child was assigned a factor score quartile based on the agreement with each dietary pattern, with Q4 being the highest and Q1 being the lowest. Multiple linear regression examined the association between quartiles for dietary patterns and nutrient intake, and multiple logistic regression examined the association between quartiles for dietary patterns and odds of being overweight/obese. Models were adjusted for total energy intake and other covariates. Results: The prevalence of overweight/obesity in this population (age 6.2 ±2.6 years) is 46.9%. Two dietary patterns emerged: "Meals and Sweets" (MS) and "Fruits and Vegetables" (FV). Children in Q4 for FV had a lower percentage of energy from fat (p