This study investigated whether demographic, social, and economic determinants of health, including length of time participating in safety net programs, are associated with diet quality and weight status in early childhood. Using the WIC infant and toddler feeding practices study-2, classification and regression tree identified the sequence of binary splits that best differentiated the sample on Healthy Eating Index-2020 and HEI-2020 subscales, and body mass index z-score at 2-5 y. Predictors, including maternal BMI, child birthweight, sociodemographics, and length of time spent on safety net programs, were considered. Higher HEI-2020 scores were primarily predicted by race and ethnicity (e.g., Hispanic, Spanish, or non-Hispanic White), and longer WIC and shorter Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program duration. In examining HEI-2020 subscales, higher HEI adequacy was primarily predicted by higher education, older maternal age, longer WIC duration, and race and ethnicity. Higher HEI moderation was primarily predicted by race and ethnicity and longer WIC duration. Higher BMI z-score was primarily predicted by higher birth weight. Child diet quality and weight status were associated with different social determinants of health, which included maternal weight status, race and ethnicity, and food assistance program participation, particularly WIC.
Published: August 2025
ID #: 81359
Journal: Current Developments in Nutrition
Authors: Au LE, Arnold CD, Domfe C, Ritchie LD, Whaley SE, Bitler M, Frongillo EA
Focus Areas: Diet Quality & Healthy Weight, Early Childhood, Food Access, Nutrition Policy & Programs
Keywords: Diet quality/dietary assessment, Supportive family policies, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Resource Type: Journal Article
State: National
Age Groups: Pregnant women, infants and toddlers (ages 0 to 2), Preschool-age children (ages 3 to 5)
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