The aim of our study was to assess the relationships between metabolic syndrome (MS) risk factors and nutrients in children with and without MS. This study included 308 children and adolescents between the ages of 11-18 years who were overweight and obese. A questionnaire determining dietary status and physical activity was used, and their anthropometric measurements and blood samples were taken. MS was defined according to the International Diabetes Federation criteria. High consumption of energy, total fat, saturated fat, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and monosaccharide increase total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in MS patients. There was a positive correlation between resistance level and percentage of fat consumption and a negative correlation with carbohydrate percentage. However, there was a positive correlation between postprandial blood glucose level and consumption of energy, protein (g), total fat (g, %), saturated fat, and MUFA, but a negative correlation with carbohydrate percentage. High consumption of carbohydrates resulted in a 15.31 times increased risk of MS. The correlations observed among risk factors for MS and nutrients underlines the need for overweight and obese children to undertake lifestyle changes that involve adequate and balanced nutrition and regular exercise.

Keywords: metabolik sendrom, besin öğeleri, insülin direnci, obesite