Dietary behaviors and physical fitness among Chinese adolescents aged 13–16 years: a comparative study on breakfast, eggs, dairy, and sugar-sweetened beverages by urban–rural location and sex

Key Points

• Higher consumption of breakfast, eggs, and dairy improves endurance and strength in adolescents, particularly in rural settings.
• Regular breakfast eaters reported better physical fitness outcomes, showcasing the importance of morning nutrition.
• Observational analysis of dietary behaviors highlights the impact of reduced sugar-sweetened beverages on physical fitness levels among adolescents.
• The findings suggest that promoting healthy eating can lead to improved physical health among youths, especially in rural areas.