This study evaluates the links between childhood obesity (CO) and lifestyle factors such as Mediterranean Diet (MD) adherence, physical activity (PA), and sleep hygiene among preschoolers in Italy. The research, part of the EpPOI initiative, highlights alarmingly low MD adherence (only 5.3%), with 80% of children skipping breakfast and over 50% consuming sweets daily. While parents appear aware of healthy practices, children’s behaviors do not reflect this, particularly in nutrition. Positive correlations were found between PA and consumption of fruits, vegetables, and fish. The paper emphasizes the need for holistic early interventions that include nutritional education, sleep routines, and active lifestyles to combat the growing CO crisis.
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