Analysis of Differences Between Boys and Girls in the Sixth Grade of Primary School in the Degree of Nutrition and Body Composition

Elvira Nikšić, Edin Beganović, Amel Mekić

The research was conducted on a sample of 94 sixth-grade primary school students, including 44 boys and 50 girls. The aim of the study was to determine the level of nutrition and differences in body composition between boys and girls of this age group.

Based on the obtained results and the application of the t-test for independent samples, statistically significant differences were found between boys and girls in the degree of nutrition. Body composition was assessed using 34 variables measured by the InBody 720 bioelectrical impedance analyzer. Although certain variations in body composition were observed, these differences were not statistically significant.

When the groups were analyzed separately, overweight was found to be more common among boys, while obesity was equally represented in both sexes. Among the boys, 17 (38.6%) were overweight and 9 (20.5%) were obese, while 18 (40.9%) had normal body weight. No cases of malnutrition were recorded among boys. Among the girls, 10 (20.0%) were overweight, 9 (18.0%) were obese, 30 (60.0%) had normal body weight, and 1 (2.0%) was classified as malnourished.

The findings indicate that improper lifestyle habits present a significant problem among modern schoolchildren. Increased exposure to television, mobile phones, computers, and video games contributes to sedentary behavior and reduced physical activity. Since children increasingly make independent choices regarding food consumption, it is important to promote healthy eating habits and regular physical activity from an early age.

The authors emphasize the importance of preventive action through continuous monitoring of growth and development, as well as encouraging participation in sports and recreational activities. Healthy habits adopted during childhood often persist throughout later stages of life.