Obesidade abdominal e grau de processamento dos alimentos em mulheres na menopausa: estudo retrosprospectivo

Abstract

Objective: To verify the association between abdominal obesity and degree of food processing in menopausal women. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study with menopausal women participating in an extension program at the University of Caxias do Sul. The variables analyzed were: age, marital status, income, education, age at menopause, hormone replacement therapy, age at menarche. , number of children, breastfed and hours of sleep. Regarding dietary practices, the consumption of fried foods, liquids and foods was observed according to the degree of processing. Results: 193 women participated in the study, most of them aged ≥ 60 years (67.4%). The prevalence of abdominal obesity was 76.2% (95% CI, 70.1-82.2). In the analysis of association with the characteristics of the sample, a significant association was found with education (p = 0.05). When relating the food consumption of menopausal women according to the degree of food processing, it was found that those who consume a higher median of fresh and / or minimally processed foods did not have abdominal obesity (p = 0.001) and did not hormone replacement (p = 0.04). Conclusion: The association between abdominal obesity and the degree of food processing was positive for menopausal women who eat more fresh and minimally processed foods as a protective factor for non-communicable chronic diseases. However, further studies relating eating habits and practices are essential for strengthening health care with promotion and prevention at all stages of life. [resumo fornecido pelo autor]