With urbanization and changing eating behaviors, fast food consumption among school-age children has increased, significantly impacting the health of the younger generation. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of fast food consumption frequency on the nutritional status of schoolchildren. The study analyzed eating habits, fast food frequency, and their relationship with key nutritional indicators, including body mass index, daily dietary intake, and macro- and micronutrient status. Regular fast food consumption was found to be associated with excess fat, table salt, and simple carbohydrate intake, along with a deficiency of vitamins, dietary fiber, and minerals. Schoolchildren with a high frequency of fast food consumption were more likely to exhibit signs of unbalanced diets and nutritional status deviations. These results support the need to develop and implement comprehensive preventive measures aimed at promoting healthy eating habits and reducing fast food consumption in schools.

fast food, schoolchildren, nutritional status, eating behavior, healthy eating, body mass index, macro- and micronutrients, nutrition-related diseases, prevention, food hygiene.

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