PURPOSE

This study aimed to examine the effect of a multicomponent intervention program on consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), and lifestyle factors associated with SSB intake, in Hispanic children from low-income families.

DESIGN

A five-wave longitudinal study using a quasi-experimental design was conducted.

SETTING

Five elementary schools in West Texas served as the setting.

SUBJECTS

Participants included 555 predominantly Hispanic children (ages 5-9 years) from low-income families and their parents (n = 525).

INTERVENTION

A multicomponent intervention program was implemented.

MEASURES

Children's anthropometric measures were obtained. Their weight status was determined based on body mass index for age and gender. Parents responded to a demographic questionnaire, a shelf inventory, an acculturation scale, and a family survey.

ANALYSIS

Growth curve analyses were used to test differences between intervention and comparison participants' SSB intake and to examine potential covariates.

RESULTS

Comparison group children's daily SSB intake significantly increased over time (B = 1.06 ± .40 ounces per month, p < .01), but this linear increase of SSB was slowed down by the intervention (B = -.29 ± .12, p < .05). More daily TV time, more fast food intake, and more types of SSBs available at home were associated with higher SSB intake.

CONCLUSION

Risk factors of childhood obesity were associated with each other. The intervention program produced a modest reduction in SSB consumed by economically disadvantaged and predominantly Hispanic children.