Trends in energy and nutrient intake by adolescents in public schools in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, 2003-2008

Abstract

The study analyzed variations in energy and nutrient intake by adolescents enrolled in public schools, examined in two school-based cross-sectional surveys, in 2003 and 2008. Food consumption was assessed with three food records. Weight was classified according to World Health Organization criteria. A total of 433 adolescents were studied in 2003 and 510 in 2008. Prevalence of excess weight was 17% in 2003 and 22% in 2008 (p > 0.05). There was a reduction in the intake of saturated fats and vitamin A in boys. Girls showed an increase in the intake of energy, carbohydrates, and calcium and a reduction in protein and iron. Both boys and girls reduced their intake of vitamin E and lipids and increased their sodium. Adolescents with excess weight showed an increase in calcium intake and a decrease in saturated fat and vitamin A. The nutritional quality of the adolescents’ diet declined over the course of the five years.