NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS IN ADOLESCENTS OF CAMPO GRANDE (MS)

Abstract

Objective: To assess the nutritional status and associated factors in adolescents. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with adolescents (14 years old) of a public school of Campo Grande (MS). The variables investigated were: socio-economic status; nutritional status; physical activity; energy, macro and micronutrients intake and eating habits. Results: The participants were 50 adolescents (62%, female gender). Of these, 26% were overweight (26.3% − boys; 25.8% − girls). The practice of physical activity was reported by 100% of the boys and 77.4% of the girls. There was no significant difference (p<0.05) between nutritional status and practice of physical activity. Regarding energy intake, 34% of the participants were above the Estimated Energy Requirements by age and weight. A high percentage of adolescents showed reduced intake of lipids (61.7%), calcium (55.3%), fibers (80.9%) and vitamin A (93.6%), and 34% of the adolescents had an intake level of sodium above the recommended dietary intake. A small percentage of adolescents reported daily intake of fruits (12%) and raw salad (18%). However, 30% reported daily intake of sweets and 36% of soft drinks 3 or 4 times/week. Conclusions: The proportion of overweight adolescents was found to be expressive. Lack of physical activity associated with inadequate intake of energy and nutrients in a context of bad eating habits indicate risk factors for Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases with early onset. DESCRIPTORS Adolescent. Physical activity. Calcium. Food intake. Nutritional status.