The prevalence of overweight and its relation to food consumption patterns in 10 187 Colombian children between 5-17 years was assessed by factor analysis: Three consumption patterns were identified: Protein/Fiber, Snack and Traditional/Starch.By calculating Prevalence Ratios (RP), associations between food consumption patterns and overweight were established.The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 12.7% and obesity 2.8%.After adjusting for age, sex and level of wealth, Protein/ Fiber and Traditional/Starch patterns are associated with excess weight (test for linear trend for quartiles of adherence, p = 0.018 and p <0.0001 respectively).The excess weight is more prevalent than the delay for height.The dietary transition that experiences Colombia has negative effects on nutritional status.