Stunting, High BMI, and High Serum Vitamin C Adversely Affect Physical Fitness of Filipino Schoolchildren

Abstract

The study examined the association of nutritional status and inflammation with physical fitness in kindergarten and first grade schoolchildren attending public schools in Metro Manila. Physical fitness was measured using the following tests: a) jumping 7 m on two feet, b) medicine ball push, c) grip strength, d) 4x10 meter shuttle, e) 10x5 meter shuttle. Fitness scores were compared by child age, sex, micronutrient status (vitamins D, C, riboflavin, iron), anthropometric measurements (height-for-age, BMI-for-age), and presence or absence of inflammation (qualitative C-reactive protein). An overall physical fitness index (PFI) was computed. Children with significantly better scores in both strength and speed tests were males, older children, not stunted, and had low vitamin C status. Significant predictors of PFI were lower serum vitamin C (p=0.037), taller height (p=0.000), and lower BMI (p=0.000). Excess vitamin C, stunting, overweight and obesity should be avoided for improved physical fitness of Filipino schoolchildren.