The Correlation of Eating Fish with Healthy Dietary Habits and Lifestyle Profile among Children and Adolescents in Greece

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece

2 Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Demokritus University of Thrace, Greece

3 Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Science and Education, Harokopio University, Athens, Greece

4 Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Science and Education, Harokopio University, Athens, Greece.

5 Department of Kinesiology and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA

10.30476/ijns.2026.109002.1583

Abstract

Background: Frequent fish consumption is considered a key component of a healthy diet, highlighting the importance of promoting it from an early age. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of fish consumption and identify associated lifestyle factors.
Methods: In a cross-sectional observational study, data from a representative sample of 177,091 Greek schoolchildren aged 8-17 years were enrolled. The Mediterranean Diet Quality Index for children and adolescents (KIDMED) was used to assess fish intake and dietary habits; while physical activity, screen time, and sleeping habits were evaluated through self-completed questionnaires. Anthropometric and physical fitness variables were measured by physical education teachers.
Results: More boys than girls (50.1% vs. 46.6%, p<0.001) consumed fish at least 2-3 times weekly and had better anthropometric and aerobic fitness measurements, healthier dietary habits, decreased screen time, and slept more than non-consumers (all p<0.01). Consuming fish was strongly correlated with eating diets rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, dairy products, and olive oil. The likelihood of eating fish decreased by 1% for boys and 5% for girls for each year increase of age. Those who were overweight/obese were 14% less likely to eat fish frequently. The odds of consuming fish decreased by 37% and 13%, respectively, with increased screen time and insufficient sleep, while inadequate physical activity level reduced the odds of consuming fish frequently by 23%.
Conclusion: Increased fish consumption was linked to a healthier lifestyle profile in both sexes. A healthy approach to regular fish eating might be devised, such as nutritional school programs.

Highlights

Konstantinos D Tambalis (Google Scholar)

Keywords

References

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International Journal of Nutrition Sciences

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 23 August 2026

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