Breakfast Consumption and Body Mass Index in Primary, Secondary and High School Boys in Zahedan 2005-2006

Introduction: Breakfast, labeled the most important meal of the day, as part of a healthful diet and lifestyle, can positively impact children's health and well-being. In this survey we studied breakfast eating and its association to body mass index in boy students in Zahedan. Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 1278 students were selected using a cluster sampling. Data was collected via interviews with the students and by measuring their weights and heights to calculate their Body Mass Index (BMI). Data were analyzed using SPSS 13.0 and Chi-square test. Results: Results showed that 5.2 of the students never ate breakfast. Mean BMI was 17.24±3.29 kg/m2. Of students who skipped breakfast, 6 were overweight, and 7.5 were at risk of overweight. In the group of students who always or sometimes ate breakfast, 3 were overweight and 5.5 at risk of it. Using the Chi-square test breakfast consumption was found to be associated with the level of school (P=0.000). Body mass index as associated with the level of school (P=0.000), and breakfast consumption (P=0.04). Conclusion: Results indicated overweight and obesity in children who skip breakfast. Parents and students should be encouraged to change inappropriate nutritional behaviours and enhance their appropriate nutritional behaviors.