Influence of Dietary Habits on Macular Pigment in Childhood

TL;DR

This study found no link between children's adherence to the Mediterranean diet and their macular pigment levels, suggesting other factors may influence these levels.

Contribution

The study is the first to evaluate the relationship between Mediterranean diet adherence and macular pigment in children using a validated diet questionnaire.

Findings

No significant differences in MPOD were found based on gender or Mediterranean diet adherence.

MPOD levels showed no correlation with KIDMED scores or specific diet-related behaviors.

Genetic and maternal factors may play a more significant role in MPOD levels than diet in children.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: To analyze the macular pigment optical density (MPOD) values in a child population and to evaluate the relation between MPOD and adherence to the Mediterranean diet using a validated questionnaire specially created for children. Eighty-eight children were included in this cross-sectional study from two primary education schools of Seville (Spain). Methods: MPOD values were measured using Macular Pigment Screener II ®. Lutein and Zeaxanthin intake was evaluated by KIDMED questionnaire, which classifies children according to adherence to the Mediterranean diet. A whole ocular exam with slit-lamp biomicroscopy was conducted by a specialized optometrist. Results: The mean age ranged between 6 and 8 years. The mean MPOD value was 0.46 ± 0.18. The mean score of the KIDMED questionnaire was 7.19 ± 1.85. No statistically significant differences were found as a function of gender or among Mediterranean diet adherence groups. No significant differences in MPOD values between answers were found in any KIDMED questions. No correlations were found for MPOD with several variables, such as Mediterranean diet adherence and KIDMED score. Conclusions: MPOD levels in children could not be correlated with Mediterranean Diet adherence and, thus, good dietary habits. Genetic characteristics, mother’s diet habits, oxidative stress, and body fat composition in children could be the main factors influencing MPOD levels.

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