Prevalence of compliance with healthy eating in older adults from the rural zone

Abstract

Eating preferences play a relevant role throughout life, and they may influence disease based on inappropriate choices. This study aimed at determining the prevalence of compliance with the guide 10 steps to healthy eating in older adults, in addition to characterizing the sociodemographic, economic and anthropometric profile of 850 older adults from the rural zone of Uberaba-MG. The study consists of a home survey with cross-sectional and observational components. The prevalence of following the steps was determined through a questionnaire of eating frequencies. Data analysis consisted of the distribution of simple frequencies. Most participants were men, up to 70 years of age, married and living with their spouse, with a low level of education, an income of one minimum wage and well-nourished. None of the subjects followed all ten steps outlined in the guide. Step 8, which refers to the ingestion of salt, showed the greatest compliance. On the other hand, step 5, referring to the ingestion of lean meat and milk, presented the lowest compliance. Knowing the population and their habits is important for the implementation of strategies to improve quality of life.