INTRODUCTION:

Adequate nutrient intake is important for individuals to reach their growth and development potential, especially during adolescence. While most previous studies have assessed the adequacy of food intake based on subject recall, a few have used a food frequency questionnaire validated for a specific population.

OBJECTIVES:

To evaluate the adequacy of macro and micronutrient intake, according to the DRIs in adolescents using a validated food frequency questionnaire.

METHODOLOGY:

This cross-sectional study was conducted as part of the Program of Anxiety Disorders in Childhood and Adolescence. In 2013/2014, an analysis of food consumption through the food frequency questionnaire, body composition and biochemical analysis were performed.

RESULTS:

38 adolescents (18 boys, 20 girls; mean age, 16.66±1.55 years and 16.39±1.62 years; mean body mass index, 21.23±3.7 and 22.61±4.09 kg/m2, respectively) were analyzed. A high prevalence of inadequate intake of folate (in 50% of boys and 65% of girls according to Estimated Average daily requirements (EAR), and sodium intake higher than the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) in 88.89% of boys and 85% of girls were verified. Girls exhibited a high prevalence of inadequate calcium intake (55%). Macronutrient intake, however, was within acceptable distribution ranges.

CONCLUSIONS:

Inadequate intake of folate and higher sodium intake were observed in both sexes, whereas inadequate calcium intake was observed only in girls. The occurrence of these inadequacies during adolescence can lead to lifelong health problems. It is especially concerning in girls because these inadequacies can cause serious consequences during pregnancy and, in turn, to the health of offspring.

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