Authors: Teodora-Gabriela Muscalu, Sorina-Iuliana Furnea, Roberta-Doris Graef, Rebeca-Eliza Șovea, Roxana Maria Martin-Hadmaș
Affiliation
Community Nutrition and Food Safety Department, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures, Romania
Abstract
Background. The prevalence of food allergies and intolerances is steadily increasing, especially among children, and this represents a risk factor for both their physical health and emotional well-being.
Aims. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between food hypersensitivity and the level of perceived stress, as well as the presence of fatigue syndrome in diagnosed children.
Methods. The study was conducted over a 6-month period on a sample of 138 children diagnosed with food allergies or intolerances. Data collection was carried out through an online questionnaire completed by parents, which included anthropometric parameters, living environment, aspects related to food hypersensitivity, and relevant questions to calculate the perceived stress level score and fatigue syndrome, taken from previously validated questionnaires on the topic.
Results. A positive association was found between body weight and perceived stress level. Additionally, engaging in physical activities such as dancing and outdoor walks significantly reduced children’s stress levels. A link was identified between perceived stress, behavioral changes, and high scores for fatigue syndrome.
Conclusions. Children diagnosed with food hypersensitivity are at increased risk of perceived stress and chronic fatigue syndrome. Emotional support and engagement in physical activity are extremely important for an improved quality of life.
Keywords: food allergies, food hypersensitivity, food intolerances, perceived stress, fatigue syndrome
Impact of food allergies on perceived stress and fatigue syndrome in children
