Description of body mass index and the pattern of food consumption in members of a University for seniors in RS

Abstract

Abstract Currently, the longevity stood out as a significant factor in the Brazilian population, through a process of population aging in epidemiological and nutritional transition, increasing of non-transmissible chronic diseases and declining of infectious diseases. There is a growing tendency of overweight and obesity cases worldwide. The aim of this study was to describe the nutritional status by body mass index and food intake, through a Food Frequency Questionnaire and dietary habits of women over 50 years old, participants in the meditation group at the University of Seniors - UNTI. The research was characterized by a study of the transverse type. The participants were divided into two groups: women between 50 and 59 years old (n=27), and women over 60 years (n=33). In the first group, 29.6% were diagnosed with overwheight and 44.4% with obesity, according to the WHO classification; while for the elderly (women from 60 years old and up), there was 66.7 % of overweight (WHO) and 42.4% of excess weight (Lipschitz). On the assessment of food consumption, the results showed some aspects of intake inadequacy. The study found higher prevalence of obesity among women under 60 years old and high proportion of overweight in elder women. These data reinforce the importance of programs for nutrition education to increase the life quality and health of this population. Keywords: Aging, nutritional status, food consumption.