In August 2018 researchers from Japan published the results of their study to assess the relationship between screen time (television viewing, and personal computer use mobile phone use) and nutrient intake in children and adolescents. 1,414 children and adolescents aged between 6-15 years old were included in the study. Information on time spent on screen time was collected via questionnaire and intake of nutrients via a food frequency questionnaire. Results showed that longer TV viewing times were associated or tended to be associated with a lower intake of protein, potassium, calcium, iron, vitamin K, vitamin B2, and total dietary fibre in boys and a lower intake of protein, sodium, calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B2 in girls. Longer TV viewing times was also associated with a higher intake of omega-6 fatty acids in girls. Computer use was associated or tended to be associated with a lower intake of potassium, iron, vitamin K and folic acid in boys, but not in girls. In addition, a higher mobile phone use was associated with a lower intake of vitamin K in boys and a higher intake of vitamin D in girls.
Tsujiguchi H et al. Relationship between screen time and nutrient intake in Japanese children and adolescents: a cross-sectional observational study. Environ Health Prev Med. 2018 Aug 7;23(1):34