Analysis of the prevalence in sugar consumption in child care consultations

Abstract

Objectives: to analyze the prevalence of sugar consumption and associated factors in childcare consultations. Methods: cross-sectional study with 599 children > six months to < 24 months of age, assisted by the Family Health Units. Outcomes: daily consumption of sweetened beverages, sweets/candies, recorded in the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System; independent variables: sociodemographic data. Multiple logistic regression test was applied. Results: 62.10% of the children consume sugary drinks and 42.23%, sweets/candies. Consuming sugary drinks was associated with the age of 12-17 months and 29 days (OR=2.525; CI95%=1.683.78) and 18-17 months and 29 days (OR=2.90; CI95%=1.90-4.43); children living with more than four people at home (OR=1.59; CI95%=1.11-2.26), aged 12-17 months and 29 days (OR=2.05; CI95%=1.34-3.13) and 18-23 months and 29 days (OR=2.51; CI95%=1.62-3.87) were more likely to consume sweets/candies than younger children. Maternal aspects, such as age (OR=0.66; CI95%=0.460.93), marital status (OR=1.67; CI95%=1.06-2.6), schooling (OR=2.14; CI95%=1.12-4.08), and presence of government assistance (OR=2.03; CI95%=1.41-2.93), were conditions associated with the consumption of sweets. Conclusions: the prevalence of sugar in children’s diet was high and was associated with sociodemographic aspects. Health education actions should be carried out in childcare, in order to promote healthy food, minimizing the consumption of sugar.