This study examined grain consumption patterns among U.S. children and adolescents (ages 2–18, N = 8,367) and their association with diet quality and intake of shortfall nutrients identified in the 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA). Eight grain food patterns were analyzed using NHANES 2005–2010 data.
Key Points:
- Children consuming grains generally had better diet quality and higher intakes of shortfall nutrients compared to those not consuming grains.
- Patterns associated with higher diet quality included: Yeast bread and rolls, cereals, pasta, cooked cereals, and rice, crackers and salty snacks
- Dietary fiber intake was significantly higher in five grain patterns, adding 1.8–2.8 grams per day.
- Folate and iron intake were greater in nearly all grain patterns, with cereals being particularly high in vitamin D.
- Total fat intake was lower in the cereals, pasta, cooked cereals and rice, and pancakes, waffles, and French toast patterns compared to no-grain consumers.
- Total and added sugar intake did not differ significantly across grain patterns.
Several grain consumption patterns are associated with improved nutrient intakes and diet quality in children and adolescents, supporting their role in addressing dietary gaps identified by the 2015–2020 DGA.
