Sullivan, Debra K.Montgomery, Cara Michelle2009-11-022009-11-022009-08-032009http://dissertations.umi.com/ku:10523https://hdl.handle.net/1808/5580Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine if a relationship existed between children's protein intake and Body Mass Index (BMI) and/or waist circumference. Multi-ethnic students in grades 3-5 from low socio-economic schools participated in the cross-sectional analysis (n= 1960). Height, weight and waist circumference were obtained and BMI was calculated. Dietary Intake was obtained using a 24-hour recall with child. BMI percentile was significantly correlated with dietary intake of total protein (r= -.062; p < 0.01), soy protein (r= -.076; p < 0.01), total fat (r= -.070; p < 0.01), and vegetable protein (r= -.090; p < 0.01). Waist circumference was significantly correlated with total fat (r= -.059; p< 0.01) and vegetable protein intake (r= -.063; p < 0.01). In conclusion, total protein intake was associated with higher BMI and soy and vegetable protein were associated with lower BMI. Increasing non-animal sources of protein may be beneficial in children.91 pagesENThis item is protected by copyright and unless otherwise specified the copyright of this thesis/dissertation is held by the author.Health sciencesNutritionBody mass indexChildrenProteinThesisopenAccess