A longitudinal analysis of the fluctuation of food stores in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Changes in food environments have the potential to affect consumption, nutritional status, and health, and understanding these changes is of utmost importance. This study, therefore, aimed to examine the fluctuation of food stores that sell fruits and vegetables over five years in the health promotion service area of Primary Health Care (PHC) in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. METHODS: This was an ecological study that used data from a food environment audit conducted in the realm of Brazilian PHC. Buffers of 1 mile (equivalent to 1600 m) were created around health promotion services to define food environments. All food stores and open-air food markets that sold fruits and vegetables (FV) within this buffer area were considered eligible. The data collection was performed during two periods: the baseline, in 2013, and after five years, in 2018. This study compares the fluctuation by the type of stores and according to the health vulnerability index (HVI). RESULTS: After 5 years, 35.2% of the stores were stable; 154 stores were closed, and 155 were opened. The stability was greater in low-vulnerability areas, and the fluctuation differed by type of store only for areas with high vulnerability. The number of supermarket decreased in high HVI territories; and local stores, showed greater stability when compared to specialized FV markets. CONCLUSIONS: The differences in store fluctuations according to the vulnerability of areas demonstrate the importance of food supply policies considering the local characteristics to reduce inequities of access to healthy foods.

Food and Nutrition Surveillance System markers predict diet quality.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the performance of food consumption markers of the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (Sisvan) in assessing the overall dietary quality. METHODS: The study was carried out based on the reproduction of responses to markers in 24-hour recall data from 46,164 individuals aged ≥ 10 years, from the 2017-2018 Household Budget Survey (POF). Seven Sisvan markers were evaluated, and two scores were calculated for each participant, based on the sum of the number of healthy food markers (beans, fruits, and vegetables, ranging from 0 to 3) and unhealthy (hamburgers/sausages, sweetened beverages, instant noodles/salt snacks/crackers, stuffed cookies/sweets/candies, ranging from 0 to 4) consumed. Linear regression analyses were used to assess the association between scores and diet quality indicators (ultra-processed foods, dietary diversity, and levels of saturated and trans fat, added sugar, sodium, potassium, and fiber in the diet). RESULTS: The score of healthy eating markers increased significantly with increasing dietary diversity and potassium and fiber contents in the diet, while the opposite trend was observed for the densities of added sugar, sodium, saturated and trans fat (p < 0.001). The score of unhealthy eating markers increased significantly with the increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods and densities of added sugar, saturated and trans fat levels in the diet, while an inverse trend was observed for potassium and fiber (p < 0.001). The joint analysis of the combination of the two marker scores showed that individuals with better performance (3 in the healthy food score, and 0 in the unhealthy food score) have a lower number of inadequacies in nutrient consumption. CONCLUSION: Sisvan food consumption markers, quickly and easily applied and already incorporated into the Brazilian public health system, have good potential to reflect the overall dietary quality.

Is the adherence to the food practices recommended by the dietary guidelines for the Brazilian population associated with diet quality?

PURPOSE: The Brazilian Food Guide (BFG)'s messages are mostly qualitative and focused on food practices, such as meal planning, cooking, and eating modes. This study sough to investigate whether the adherence to these food practices is aligned with diet quality. METHODS: A quota-based subsample of the NutriNet-Brasil Cohort (n = 2052) completed the Food Practices Brazil Scale (FPBr), a 24-item scale assessing the adherence to healthy eating practices recommended by the BFG. Four possible frequency-based answers are given and a score ranging from 0 to 72 is calculated by summing them (FPBr-score). Data from web-based 24-h recalls were used for calculating the usual percentage of energy intake (%energy) of ten food groups based on the level of food processing: plant-based unprocessed or minimally processed foods; processed foods; ultra-processed foods; fruits; vegetables; whole grains; beans and other legumes; nuts; red meat; and table sugar. The association between quartiles of the FPBr-score and food groups' %energy was analysed through crude and adjusted linear regression models. RESULTS: Except for red meat, all the other food groups were linearly associated with the FPBr-score in the expected direction. For example, adjusted means for the %energy of plant-based unprocessed or minimally processed foods were 26.7% (CI95% 25.9-27.5) and 36.8% (CI95% 36.0-37.6) among those classified in the first and fourth quartiles of the FPBr-score, respectively. For ultra-processed foods, these percentages were 27.0 (CI95% 26.3-27.8) against 17.5 (CI95% 16.7-18.3). CONCLUSIONS: These results support the use of messages based on practices and behaviors in Food-Based Dietary Guidelines. At the same time, they call attention to the importance of policies that enable people to adopt healthier food practices.

The tendency of stunting among children under five in the Northern Region of Brazil, according to the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System, 2008-2017

Abstract Objective: To analyze the temporal tendency of stunting prevalence among children under five years of age registered in the Food and Nutritional Surveillance System (SISVAN) in the Brazilian Northern Region, from 2008 to 2017. Methods: Ecological time-series study with data from SISVAN. The annual variation rate for the prevalence of undernutrition, measured by the presence of stunting (low height-for-age index), was estimated for the Northern Region and for each of its states using the Prais-Winsten regression model with and without variable adjustment for SISVAN coverage to explore the relationship between these variables. Results: The Northern Region showed a tendency toward the reduction of chronic child stunting, with an annual variation of -5.30% (95%CI -9.64; -0.77) in the period studied. The states of Acre (-7.19%; 95%CI -12.31; -1.77), Pará (-4.86%; 95%CI -9.44; -0.03), and Tocantins (-6.22%; 95%CI -9.88; -2.41) showed a tendency to reduce the prevalence of stunting, while the other four states showed stability during the period. A strong negative correlation was found between SISVAN coverage and the prevalence of stunting in the states of Acre (beta: -0.725), Amazonas (beta: -0.874), Pará (beta: -0.841), and Tocantins (beta: -0.871), indicating that the increase in system coverage is associated with a reduction of stunting. Conclusions: There is a tendency toward a reduction in the prevalence of stunting particularly in three states and in the North Region as a whole, from 2008 to 2017. The coverage by the system was associated with a reduction in the prevalence of child stunting in four states.

Self-efficacy among health professionals to manage therapeutic groups of patients with obesity: Scale development and validity evidences.

Health professionals have to be confident to manage therapeutic groups of patients with obesity considering the potential of such approach to organize and provide health care. This study aimed to validate the scale of self-efficacy among health professionals to manage therapeutic groups of patients with obesity. Items were developed by an interprofessional group based on theoretical references on humanized healthcare. Scope, relevance, clarity, and comprehensibility of items and response options were evaluated by experts and health professionals. Using factor analysis and item response theory analysis, items with better discrimination were selected. The interpretation of the scores was proposed with a description of the self-efficacy around different levels. All steps were conducted using online forms. A pool of 21 items was proposed with up to five response options. Experts and health professionals retained 17 items with few changes in wording and four response options. The final scale was composed of 17 items, from which we derived three levels of self-efficacy (low, moderate, high). This study conceived a simple tool to assess health professionals' confidence in managing obesity in therapeutic groups, which may be helpful in designing and measuring the impact of interprofessional education programs to leverage health assistance quality.

The tendency of stunting among children under five in the Northern Region of Brazil, according to the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System, 2008-2017.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the temporal tendency of stunting prevalence among children under five years of age registered in the Food and Nutritional Surveillance System (SISVAN) in the Brazilian Northern Region, from 2008 to 2017. METHODS: Ecological time-series study with data from SISVAN. The annual variation rate for the prevalence of undernutrition, measured by the presence of stunting (low height-for-age index), was estimated for the Northern Region and for each of its states using the Prais-Winsten regression model with and without variable adjustment for SISVAN coverage to explore the relationship between these variables. RESULTS: The Northern Region showed a tendency toward the reduction of chronic child stunting, with an annual variation of -5.30% (95%CI -9.64; -0.77) in the period studied. The states of Acre (-7.19%; 95%CI -12.31; -1.77), Pará (-4.86%; 95%CI -9.44; -0.03), and Tocantins (-6.22%; 95%CI -9.88; -2.41) showed a tendency to reduce the prevalence of stunting, while the other four states showed stability during the period. A strong negative correlation was found between SISVAN coverage and the prevalence of stunting in the states of Acre (beta: -0.725), Amazonas (beta: -0.874), Pará (beta: -0.841), and Tocantins (beta: -0.871), indicating that the increase in system coverage is associated with a reduction of stunting. CONCLUSIONS: There is a tendency toward a reduction in the prevalence of stunting particularly in three states and in the North Region as a whole, from 2008 to 2017. The coverage by the system was associated with a reduction in the prevalence of child stunting in four states.

Conhecimento, autoeficácia e práticas profissionais relacionadas ao Guia Alimentar para a população brasileira na atenção primária à saúde / Knowledge, self-efficacy and professional practices related to the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian population in primary health care

Resumo Introdução fatores individuais parecem estar relacionados à utilização de novas recomendações e mudanças de prática profissional para ações de promoção à saúde. Objetivo avaliar a relação entre conhecimento, autoeficácia (AE) e utilização das recomendações do Guia Alimentar Brasileiro (GAB) nas práticas de equipes de Núcleos de Apoio à Saúde da Família (NASF-AB). Método recorte transversal de pós-intervenção de um ensaio comunitário controlado envolvendo 26 profissionais de saúde. Conhecimento e AE em utilizar as recomendações do GAB foram coletados por escalas validadas autoaplicáveis. A utilização do GAB na prática profissional foi mensurada mediante observação da rotina de trabalho dos NASF-AB e preenchimento de escala validada sobre as recomendações do GAB. Todos os escores variaram de 0 a 100. Resultados as pontuações médias nos escores de conhecimento, AE e utilização do GAB foram de 83,07 (DP = 18,29), 63,36 (DP = 19,07) e 4,33 (DP = 8,03), respectivamente. Houve correlação positiva e moderada entre AE e escore de utilização do GAB (r = 0,45; p = 0,03). Conhecimento sobre o GAB obteve fraca correlação com o escore de utilização (r = 0,34; p = 0,11). Diferença significativa foi obtida entre as médias do escore de utilização do GAB no grupo de elevada AE (5,13; p = 0,004; DP =1,55), em relação ao de baixa AE (3,40; p = 0,059; DP = 1,69), independentemente da categoria profissional. Conclusão neste estudo, a AE demonstrou estar moderadamente correlacionada com a adoção de novas práticas profissionais.

Abstract Background Individual factors appear related to the adoption of new recommendations and changes to professional practice for health promotion initiatives. Objective to evaluate the relationship between knowledge, self-efficacy (SE) and adoption of the Brazilian Dietary Guideline (BDG) recommendations in the practices of Family Health Support Center (NASF-AB) teams. Method a post-intervention cross-sectional sample from a controlled community trial involving 26 health professionals. Knowledge and SE in adopting the BDG recommendations were determined using a validated self- applicable scale. BDG adoption in professional practice was measured by observing the NASF-AB work routine and the scoring on the validated scale investigating GAB recommendation uptake. Scores ranged from 0 to 100 points. Results Average scores for knowledge, SE and BDG use were 83.07 (SD = 18.29), 63.36 (SD = 19.07) and 4.33 (SD = 8.03), respectively. There was a positive moderate correlation between SE and BDG utilization scores (r = 0.45; p = 0.03). Knowledge about BDG presented a weak correlation with the utilization score (r = 0.34; p = 0.11). Significant difference was observed between the averages of the BDG utilization score in the high SE group (5.13; p = 0.004; SD = 1.55), in relation to the low SE group (3.40; p = 0.059; SD = 1.69), regardless of professional category. Conclusion in this study, SE was moderately correlated with the adoption of new professional practices.

O papel da agricultura urbana e periurbana na segurança alimentar global do pós-guerra à crise da covid-19: novas perspectivas em justiça alimentar, saúde global e sustentabilidade, / The role of urban and peri-urban agriculture in global food security from post-war to the COVID-19 crisis: new perspectives on food justice, global health, and sustainability,

Resumo A atual sindemia global, amplificada pela pandemia de covid-19, evidencia o colapso dos sistemas alimentares atuais. As iniciativas de agricultura urbana e periurbana (AUP) têm sido reconhecidas como estratégias de oposição ao modelo de sistema alimentar dominante, a partir de seus múltiplos impactos positivos. Assim, o objetivo deste artigo é discutir a evolução do conceito de segurança alimentar e nutricional (SAN) no âmbito internacional, desde sua proposição (no pós-Segunda Guerra Mundial) até a crise da covid-19, compreendendo quais as contribuições a AUP ocupa nesta agenda. Para isso, o documento estrutura-se a partir de uma revisão crítica de literatura. O campo da SAN evoluiu e foram incluídas diferentes dimensões à sua caracterização, contudo, as respostas institucionais concentram-se em momentos de crise, cujos impactos incidem sobre ela e privilegiam a manutenção de sistemas alimentares globalizados e insustentáveis. Já as práticas de AUP aparecem com picos de ascensão e declínio, a medida em que suas contribuições ganham vão ganhando novos contornos, evoluindo junto com a agenda de SAN. Na perspectiva de ampliar e somar às discussões atuais sobre SAN e AUP, discute-se, finalmente, a necessidade de incorporação dos conceitos de justiça, saúde global e de uma visão multidimensional sobre sustentabilidade.

Abstract The current global syndemic, amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlights the collapse of current food systems. Urban and peri-urban agriculture (UPA) initiatives have been recognised as strategies of opposition to the dominant food system model based on their multiple positive impacts. Thus, the aim of this article is to discuss the evolution of the concept of food and nutrition security (FNS) at the international level from its proposition (in the post-World War II period) to the COVID-19 crisis, understanding the contributions of UPA in this agenda. To this end, the document is based on a critical literature review. The FNS field has evolved, and different dimensions have been included in its characterisation; however, institutional responses are concentrated in times of crises, whose impacts affect it and favour the maintenance of globalised and unsustainable food systems. The UPA practices, on the other hand, appear with peaks of rise and decline, as their contributions gain new contours, evolving along with the FNS agenda. With a view to broadening and adding to the current discussions on FNSand UPA, we finally discuss the need to incorporate the concepts of justice, global health, and a multidimensional view on sustainability.

Food and Nutrition Surveillance System markers predict diet quality / Marcadores do Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional predizem qualidade da dieta

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To investigate the performance of food consumption markers of the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (Sisvan) in assessing the overall dietary quality. METHODS The study was carried out based on the reproduction of responses to markers in 24-hour recall data from 46,164 individuals aged ≥ 10 years, from the 2017-2018 Household Budget Survey (POF). Seven Sisvan markers were evaluated, and two scores were calculated for each participant, based on the sum of the number of healthy food markers (beans, fruits, and vegetables, ranging from 0 to 3) and unhealthy (hamburgers/sausages, sweetened beverages, instant noodles/salt snacks/crackers, stuffed cookies/sweets/candies, ranging from 0 to 4) consumed. Linear regression analyses were used to assess the association between scores and diet quality indicators (ultra-processed foods, dietary diversity, and levels of saturated and trans fat, added sugar, sodium, potassium, and fiber in the diet). RESULTS The score of healthy eating markers increased significantly with increasing dietary diversity and potassium and fiber contents in the diet, while the opposite trend was observed for the densities of added sugar, sodium, saturated and trans fat (p < 0.001). The score of unhealthy eating markers increased significantly with the increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods and densities of added sugar, saturated and trans fat levels in the diet, while an inverse trend was observed for potassium and fiber (p < 0.001). The joint analysis of the combination of the two marker scores showed that individuals with better performance (3 in the healthy food score, and 0 in the unhealthy food score) have a lower number of inadequacies in nutrient consumption. CONCLUSION Sisvan food consumption markers, quickly and easily applied and already incorporated into the Brazilian public health system, have good potential to reflect the overall dietary quality.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Investigar o desempenho dos marcadores do consumo alimentar do Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional (Sisvan) na avaliação da qualidade global da alimentação. MÉTODOS O estudo foi realizado a partir da reprodução de respostas aos marcadores em dados de recordatórios de 24 horas, de 46.164 indivíduos com idade menor ou igual a 10 anos, da Pesquisa de Orçamentos Familiares 2017-2018. Foram avaliados sete marcadores do Sisvan e calculados dois escores para cada participante, a partir do somatório do número de marcadores de alimentação saudável (feijão, frutas, verduras/legumes, variando de 0 a 3) e não saudável (hambúrguer/embutidos, bebidas adoçadas, macarrão instantâneo/salgadinhos/biscoitos salgados, biscoito recheado/doces/guloseimas, variando de 0 a 4) consumidos. Análises de regressão linear foram usadas para avaliar a associação entre os escores e indicadores de qualidade da alimentação (participação de alimentos ultraprocessados, diversidade e teores de gordura saturada, trans, açúcar de adição, sódio, potássio e fibra da dieta). RESULTADOS o escore de marcadores de alimentação saudável aumentou de forma significativa com o aumento da diversidade e dos teores de potássio e fibra da dieta, enquanto tendência oposta foi observada para as densidades de açúcar de adição, sódio, gordura saturada e trans (p < 0,001). Observou-se que o escore de marcadores de alimentação não saudável aumentou de forma significativa com o aumento da participação de alimentos ultraprocessados e dos teores de açúcar de adição, gordura saturada e trans da dieta, enquanto tendência inversa é observada para potássio e fibra (p < 0,001). A análise conjunta da combinação dos dois escores de marcadores mostrou que indivíduos com melhor desempenho (3 no escore de alimentos saudáveis, e 0 no de alimentos não saudáveis) possuem menor número de inadequações no consumo de nutrientes. CONCLUSÃO Os marcadores do consumo alimentar do Sisvan, aplicados de forma rápida e prática e já incorporados no sistema público de saúde brasileiro, possuem bom potencial para refletir a qualidade global da alimentação.

Medida do equilíbrio de decisões para redução do peso corporal entre pessoas com sobrepeso ou obesidade: uma revisão sistemática / Measuring the balance of decisions to reduce body weight among overweight or obesity people: a systematic review

Introdução: Abordagens comportamentais têm contribuído para a efetividade do tratamento da obesidade. A avaliação do equilíbrio de decisões (ED) para redução de peso, isto é, o equilíbrio entre prós e contras da mudança de comportamento, é estratégica no tratamento, contribuindo para a pactuação de estratégias para o enfrentamento dos desafios. É necessário, porém, utilizar instrumentos válidos para mensurar o ED. Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade de instrumentos de avaliação do ED para redução do peso corporal visando qualificar o cuidado da pessoa com obesidade no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Métodos: Realizou-se revisão sistemática da literatura sobre o desenvolvimento e a validação de instrumentos em sete bases de dados seguindo a metodologia Cosmin. Variações dos termos psicometria, obesidade e ED foram combinadas com operadores booleanos. Em duplicada e independentemente, duas pesquisadoras realizaram: extração de dados, avaliação da qualidade e síntese de evidências, sendo as divergências solucionadas por consenso. Esta revisão foi registrada na base internacional Prospero (CRD42020197797). Resultados: Identificaram-se cinco estudos, sendo que três realizaram a tradução e adaptação transcultural do mesmo instrumento. Todos os estudos apresentaram ED em duas dimensões (prós e contras), mas usaram métodos duvidosos ou inadequados, e a maioria apresentou evidências científicas de muito baixa qualidade. Conclusões: Os resultados não sustentaram o uso dos instrumentos existentes nem sua tradução e adaptação transcultural, sendo necessário o desenvolvimento de um novo instrumento. Este estudo, ao disponibilizar um instrumento válido para uso no SUS, poderá contribuir para qualificar o cuidado da pessoa com obesidade e deter o crescimento da obesidade no país.

Introduction: Behavioral strategies have been adding to the effectiveness of obesity treatment. And the assessment of the decisional balance (DB) for weight reduction, that is, the balance between expected losses and gains around the behavioral changes, is strategic for managing obesity. The DB assessment may contribute to the agreement on strategies to face the challenges of the treatment. But, there is a need to use a valid instrument to assess the DB. Objective: evaluate the quality of instruments assessing DB for weight reduction to qualify obesity management in the Sistema Único de Saúde ­ SUS (Unified Health System). Methods: A systematic review of studies about instrument development and/or validation was carried out on seven databases using the Cosmin methodology. Terms related to psychometrics, obesity, and DB were combined with Boolean operators to guide the search. Two researchers performed independently and in duplicate: data extraction, quality assessment, and evidence synthesis, and divergences were resolved by consensus. This review was registered in the international database Prospero (CRD42020197797). Results: Five studies were identified. Three of them reported translations and cross-cultural validity of the same instrument. All analyses presented DB in two dimensions (pros and cons, but used doubtful or inadequate methods. Most of the evidence was very low rate. Conclusions:The results did not support the instrument's use, translations, or cross-cultural adaptation. It is necessary to develop a new tool. By providing a valid instrument for use in SUS, this study could contribute to qualifying the care of people with obesity and stopping the growth of obesity in the country.

Development and Validation of a Protocol for Pregnant Women Based on the Brazilian Dietary Guidelines.

OBJECTIVE: To develop and validate a protocol for the use of the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population (DGBP) in the individual dietary advice for pregnant women assisted in primary healthcare (PHC). METHODS: Methodological study that involved the elaboration of a protocol in six steps: definition of the format, definition of the instrument to evaluate food consumption, systematization of evidence on food and nutrition needs of pregnant women, extraction of DGBP recommendations, development of messages of dietary guidelines and content, and face validity. The analyses of the validation steps were carried out by calculating the Content Validity Index (CVI) and thematic content analysis. RESULTS: As products of the steps, the protocol structure was defined and the dietary advice for pregnant women were elaborated, considering physiological changes, food consumption, nutritional and health needs, and socioeconomic conditions of this population. The protocol was well evaluated by experts and health professionals in terms of clarity, relevance (CVI > 0.8), and applicability. In addition, the participants made some suggestions to improve the clarity of the messages and to expand the applicability of the instrument with Brazilian pregnant women. CONCLUSION: The instrument developed fills a gap in clinical protocols on dietary advice for pregnant women focused on promoting a healthy diet, contributing to a healthy pregnancy. In addition, it demonstrates potential to contribute to the qualification of PHC professionals and to the implementation of the DGBP recommendations.

OBJETIVO: Desenvolver e validar um protocolo para uso do Guia Alimentar para a População Brasileira (GAPB) na orientação alimentar individual de gestantes atendidas na atenção primária à saúde (APS). MéTODOS: Estudo metodológico que envolveu a elaboração de um protocolo em seis etapas: definição do formato do documento, definição do instrumento de avaliação do consumo alimentar, sistematização de evidências sobre necessidades de alimentação e nutrição de gestantes, extração das recomendações do GAPB, desenvolvimento de mensagens de orientação alimentar e validação de conteúdo e validação aparente. As análises das etapas de validação foram realizadas através do cálculo do índice de validade de conteúdo e análise temática de conteúdo. RESULTADOS: Como produtos das etapas, a estrutura do protocolo foi definida e as orientações alimentares de gestantes foram elaboradas, considerando as alterações fisiológicas, consumo alimentar, necessidades nutricionais e de saúde e condições socioeconômicas desta população. O protocolo foi bem avaliado por especialistas e profissionais de saúde nos critérios de clareza, pertinência (índice de validade de conteúdo > 0,8) e aplicabilidade. Além disso, os participantes deram sugestões para melhoria da clareza das mensagens e para ampliar a aplicabilidade do instrumento em gestantes brasileiras. CONCLUSãO: O instrumento desenvolvido preenche uma lacuna sobre protocolos clínicos de orientação alimentar para gestantes focado na promoção da alimentação saudável, contribuindo para uma gestação saudável. Além disso, o instrumento demonstra potencial para contribuir na qualificação de profissionais da APS e implementação das recomendações do GAPB.

Development and Validation of a Protocol for Pregnant Women Based on the Brazilian Dietary Guidelines / Desenvolvimento e validação de um protocolo para orientação de gestantes baseado no guia alimentar para a população brasileira

Abstract Objective To develop and validate a protocol for the use of the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population (DGBP) in the individual dietary advice for pregnant women assisted in primary healthcare (PHC). Methods Methodological study that involved the elaboration of a protocol in six steps: definition of the format, definition of the instrument to evaluate food consumption, systematization of evidence on food and nutrition needs of pregnant women, extraction of DGBP recommendations, development of messages of dietary guidelines and content, and face validity. The analyses of the validation steps were carried out by calculating the Content Validity Index (CVI) and thematic content analysis. Results As products of the steps, the protocol structure was defined and the dietary advice for pregnant women were elaborated, considering physiological changes, food consumption, nutritional and health needs, and socioeconomic conditions of this population. The protocol was well evaluated by experts and health professionals in terms of clarity, relevance (CVI > 0.8), and applicability. In addition, the participants made some suggestions to improve the clarity of the messages and to expand the applicability of the instrument with Brazilian pregnant women. Conclusion The instrument developed fills a gap in clinical protocols on dietary advice for pregnant women focused on promoting a healthy diet, contributing to a healthy pregnancy. In addition, it demonstrates potential to contribute to the qualification of PHC professionals and to the implementation of the DGBP recommendations.

Resumo Objetivo Desenvolver e validar um protocolo para uso do Guia Alimentar para a População Brasileira (GAPB) na orientação alimentar individual de gestantes atendidas na atenção primária à saúde (APS). Métodos Estudo metodológico que envolveu a elaboração de um protocolo em seis etapas: definição do formato do documento, definição do instrumento de avaliação do consumo alimentar, sistematização de evidências sobre necessidades de alimentação e nutrição de gestantes, extração das recomendações do GAPB, desenvolvimento de mensagens de orientação alimentar e validação de conteúdo e validação aparente. As análises das etapas de validação foram realizadas através do cálculo do índice de validade de conteúdo e análise temática de conteúdo. Resultados Como produtos das etapas, a estrutura do protocolo foi definida e as orientações alimentares de gestantes foram elaboradas, considerando as alterações fisiológicas, consumo alimentar, necessidades nutricionais e de saúde e condições socioeconômicas desta população. O protocolo foi bem avaliado por especialistas e profissionais de saúde nos critérios de clareza, pertinência (índice de validade de conteúdo > 0,8) e aplicabilidade. Além disso, os participantes deram sugestões para melhoria da clareza das mensagens e para ampliar a aplicabilidade do instrumento em gestantes brasileiras. Conclusão O instrumento desenvolvido preenche uma lacuna sobre protocolos clínicos de orientação alimentar para gestantes focado na promoção da alimentação saudável, contribuindo para uma gestação saudável. Além disso, o instrumento demonstra potencial para contribuir na qualificação de profissionais da APS e implementação das recomendações do GAPB.

Consumer perceptions of non-caloric sweeteners and the content of caloric and non-caloric sweeteners in ultra-processed products in Brazil.

Food industries are reformulating their products to lower total sugar and caloric content. Caloric sugars are often substituted by or combined with non-caloric sweeteners. Our study analyzed information about the presence, number and type, and content of different sweeteners displayed on the ingredient list of 10 key ultra-processed products (UPP), from 3 different categories. It also assessed consumers' opinions, perceptions and understanding of caloric and non-caloric sugars used in UPPs using data from 12 focus group discussions. Results indicate a large diversity in sweeteners, frequent use of a combination of multiple caloric and non-caloric sweeteners, often in the same product, and a lack of disclosure of the amounts of non-caloric sweeteners on the nutrition labels. Qualitative analysis reflected the inconsistency of information on nutrition labels and the challenges in compliance with regulations. Participants were unsure about the different types of sweeteners, examples of artificial sweeteners and their potential health consequences. Presenting clearer additive and nutrition information would facilitate consumer comprehension and support healthy food choices.

Convergent validity and invariance analysis of a scale to measure adherence to eating practices recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population. / Validade convergente e análise de invariância de uma escala de adesão a práticas alimentares recomendadas pelo Guia Alimentar para a População Brasileira.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the convergent validity and invariance of a scale to measure adherence to eating practices recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population. METHODS: A subsample (n=1309) of the NutriNet-Brasil cohort (self-filled web-based study) answered the 24-items scale based on the Guide, as well as socioeconomic and dietary questionnaires. The score in the scale (eGuia) was compared by Spearman's correlation with scores of fresh and minimally processed foods (eG1) and ultra-processed foods (eG4) consumption, both composed of the average number of food items consumed in three random days. Correlations' direction and strength were observed to infer convergent validity. A multi-group confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess scale invariance at the configural, factorial and metric levels, between subgroups of sex (men/women), age (≤37/>37, being 37 the median) and years of schooling (≤11/>11). The model was invariant when the goodness-of-fit indices varied within acceptable ranges compared to the previous level. RESULTS: Participants were on average 39 years old (sd=13.7), 53% were women and 69% had more than 11 years of education. Correlations between eGuia and eG1, and between eGuia and eG4 were 0.56 and -0.51 (p<0.001), respectively. In all sociodemographic groups, the goodness-of-fit indices varied within acceptable ranges. CONCLUSION: The correlations show that the eating practices measured by the scale are aligned with a healthy food consumption, showing its convergent validity. In this sample, the scale measured the same dimensions, showed equivalence of items' factor loadings, and generated comparable scores between subgroups of sex, age, and education.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a validade convergente e a invariância de uma escala de adesão a práticas alimentares recomendadas pelo Guia Alimentar para a População Brasileira. MÉTODOS: Uma subamostra (n=1.309) da coorte NutriNet-Brasil (estudo online autopreenchido) respondeu à escala baseada no guia (24 itens) e a questionários socioeconômicos e alimentares. O escore na escala (eGuia) foi comparado por meio de correlação de Spearman a escores de consumo de alimentos in natura e minimamente processados (eG1) e ultraprocessados (eG4), compostos do número médio de alimentos desses grupos consumidos em três dias aleatórios. Para inferência de validade convergente, observaram-se o sentido e a magnitude das correlações. Empregou-se análise fatorial confirmatória com múltiplos grupos para avaliar a invariância nos níveis configural, fatorial e escalar, entre subgrupos de sexo (homens/mulheres), idade (≤37/>37, sendo 37 a mediana) e anos de estudo (≤11/>11). Considerou-se o modelo invariante quando os índices de ajuste variaram nos limites aceitáveis ante o nível anterior. RESULTADOS: Os participantes tinham em média 39 anos (desvio padrão ­ DP=13,7), 53% eram mulheres e 69% tinham mais de 11 anos de estudo. As correlações entre eGuia e eG1 e eGuia e eG4 foram 0,56 e -0,51 (p<0,001), respectivamente. Em todos os subgrupos, os índices de ajuste variaram nos limites aceitáveis. CONCLUSÃO: As correlações mostram que as práticas alimentares medidas pela escala estão associadas ao consumo alimentar saudável, demonstrando validade convergente. Nessa amostra, a escala mediu as mesmas dimensões, apresentou equivalência nas cargas fatoriais dos itens e gerou escores comparáveis entre diferentes subgrupos de sexo, idade e escolaridade.

Food consumption markers and associated factors in Brazil: distribution and evolution, Brazilian National Health Survey, 2013 and 2019.

This study objective was to describe the distribution of food consumption markers in Brazil per sociodemographic characteristics and its evolution from 2013 to 2019. Healthy food consumption markers (regular consumption of beans, fruits, vegetables, and fish, recommended consumption of red meat, and never replacing meals with snacks) and unhealthy food consumption markers (regular consumption of sweetened beverages and confectionery and excessive salt intake) were studied for adult participants of the Brazilian National Health Survey. The prevalence of food consumption markers was estimated according to sociodemographic characteristics and compared to data of 2013 and 2019. Most of the population regularly consumes beans, fruits, and vegetables, they also follows the recommendation to limit red meat consumption, and never replaces meals with snacks. The percentage of people who regularly consume sweetened beverages and perceive their salt intake as excessive is relatively low. The distribution of food consumption markers was associated with sex, age, income, race/skin color, area of dwelling, and schooling level. From 2013 to 2019, the prevalence of most food consumption markers declined, except for the regular consumption of fruits and recommended consumption of red meat, that increased 8.5% and 18.5%, respectively, and the regular consumption of vegetables, which did not vary. Healthy and unhealthy food consumption markers should be monitored to evaluate the effect of healthy eating policies implemented in the country.

Ultra-Processed Food Availability and Sociodemographic Associated Factors in a Brazilian Municipality.

The availability of ultra-processed foods in a municipality tends to be related to different types of food retailers and their location in the territory, besides social, economic, and demographic factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the availability of ultra-processed foods according to different types of food retailers and sociodemographic factors. This is a cross-sectional observational study carried out with audit data from food retailers in the municipality of Jundiaí, SP. Using a validated instrument, data on the availability of 18 types of ultra-processed foods were used to create a score of ultra-processed foods, ranging from 0 to 100 points, and five subscores referring to the ultra-processed food subgroups. Descriptive statistics and means comparison tests were performed to verify differences in the ultra-processed food availability score, according to the food retail type, household income, number of household members, and percentage of people of the color population in the census tract in which food retailers were located. Geo-referenced maps were used to characterize the score of ultra-processed in the territory, according to sociodemographic variables. A total of 649 food retailers were analyzed, most of which were classified as neighborhood markets (25.4%). The supermarkets were the category with the highest ultra-processed food availability score. Among the subgroups of ultra-processed foods analyzed, candies, soft drinks, and snacks were available in 60% of the food retailers. Higher ultra-processed food availability score was observed in regions with lower income, higher percentage of people of color population, and higher number of members per household. The findings show that the greater availability of ultra-processed foods is related to supermarkets and markets and regions of greater social vulnerability, which can put this population at nutritional risk.

Consumer perceptions of non-caloric sweeteners and the content of caloric and non-caloric sweeteners in ultra-processed products in Brazil / Percepções do consumidor sobre adoçantes não calóricos e o conteúdo de adoçantes calóricos e não calóricos em produtos ultraprocessados no Brasil

Abstract Food industries are reformulating their products to lower total sugar and caloric content. Caloric sugars are often substituted by or combined with non-caloric sweeteners. Our study analyzed information about the presence, number and type, and content of different sweeteners displayed on the ingredient list of 10 key ultra-processed products (UPP), from 3 different categories. It also assessed consumers' opinions, perceptions and understanding of caloric and non-caloric sugars used in UPPs using data from 12 focus group discussions. Results indicate a large diversity in sweeteners, frequent use of a combination of multiple caloric and non-caloric sweeteners, often in the same product, and a lack of disclosure of the amounts of non-caloric sweeteners on the nutrition labels. Qualitative analysis reflected the inconsistency of information on nutrition labels and the challenges in compliance with regulations. Participants were unsure about the different types of sweeteners, examples of artificial sweeteners and their potential health consequences. Presenting clearer additive and nutrition information would facilitate consumer comprehension and support healthy food choices.

Resumo Indústrias alimentícias estão reformulando produtos para reduzir a quantidade total de açúcar. Para reduzir a densidade calórica e manter o dulçor de seus produtos, açúcares são combinados com edulcorantes. Esse estudo teve como objetivo analisar as informações sobre a presença, número e tipo, e conteúdo de diferentes edulcorantes exibidos na lista de ingredientes de 10 produtos ultraprocessados, de 3 categorias diferentes. O estudo também avaliou as percepções e entendimento dos consumidores sobre adoçantes calóricos e não calóricos usados em produtos ultraprocessados, através da análise de discussões com 12 grupos focais. Observou-se combinação de açúcares com edulcorantes no mesmo produto e, frequentemente, ausência das quantidades dos edulcorantes nos rótulos nutricionais. Esses produtos voltados a crianças oferecem calorias reduzidas às custas do aumento da variedade e concentração desses edulcorantes. Os participantes mostraram-se confusos sobre os diferentes tipos de adoçantes e edulcorantes e suas possíveis consequências à saúde. Apresentar informações mais claras sobre os ingredientes e nutrição facilitariam a compreensão dos consumidores e os apoiariam em escolhas alimentares saudáveis.

[Urban geographic space and fruit and vegetable consumption: 2013 National Health Survey]. / Espaço geográfico urbano e consumo de frutas e hortaliças: Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde 2013.

The aim of the study was to analyze the association between the urban geographic space and the regular consumption of fruit and vegetables in Brazil. It involved a population-based and cross-sectional study using data from the 2013 National Health Survey, considering 60,202 adults ≥18 years old. The dependent variables were regular fruit consumption (RFC) and regular vegetable consumption (RVC). The independent variable was the urban geographic space divided into three categories: capital, metropolitan region (MR) and interior. The Odds Ratio was calculated, adjusted by sociodemographic variables. Among women, the RFC was lower in MR (OR= 0.83; 95%CI: 0.73-0.94) and in the interior (OR= 0.68; 95%CI: 0.61-0.76), the same in men (RM: OR= 0.84; 95%CI: 0.75-0.93; Interior: OR= 0.78; 95%CI: 0.71-0.85). In most subcategories, the same was observed in the interior and the capital. There was no association with RVC and the urban geographic space in general, and when stratified in the subgroups even contradictory results were observed, because in some subgroups the RVC was higher in the capitals and lower elsewhere. Local aspects of production and distribution of these food products are considered when planning public policies that seek to promote consumption in the population.

O objetivo do estudo foi analisar a associação entre o espaço geográfico urbano e o consumo regular de frutas e hortaliças no Brasil. Estudo de base populacional, transversal, com dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (2013), considerando 60.202 adultos ≥18 anos. As variáveis dependentes foram o consumo regular de frutas (CRF) e o consumo regular de hortaliças (CRH). O espaço geográfico urbano foi a variável independente, dividida em: capital, região metropolitana (RM) e interior. Foi calculado o Odds Ratio ajustado pelas variáveis sociodemográficas. Entre as mulheres o CRF foi menor na RM (OR= 0,83; IC95%: 0,73-0,94) e no interior (OR= 0,68; IC95%: 0,61-0,76), o mesmo aconteceu entre os homens (RM: OR= 0,84; IC95%: 0,75-0,93; Interior: OR= 0,78; IC95%: 0,71-0,85). Na maioria das subcategorias o mesmo foi observado na comparação interior x capital. Não houve associação do CRH com o espaço geográfico urbano de maneira geral, e quando estratificado nos subgrupos foram observados resultados contraditórios, pois em alguns subgrupos o CRH foi maior nas capitais e em outros menor. Aspectos locais de produção e distribuição desses alimentos devem ser considerados no planejamento de políticas públicas que busquem a promoção de seu consumo.

Development and validation of an instrument to assess Brazilians' knowledge, perceptions, and behaviors toward salt and sodium.

This study aimed to develop and validate an instrument to assess Brazilian adults' knowledge, perceptions, and behaviors (KPB) toward salt and sodium. Based on a PAHO/WHO questionnaire, a new instrument was developed and evaluated by 11 experts, generating item and scale-level content validity indexes (I-CVI and S-CVI, respectively). Face validity was verified through a focus group with eight participants, followed by an operational test with 36 interviewees. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to determine the construct validity, and Cronbach's α coefficient was calculated to analyze instrument's reliability, using data collected via telephone from a probabilistic sample of 422 adults. The generated solutions were analyzed from theoretical and statistical significance perspectives, which supported the determination of the best model. Remaining items were scored, with higher scores related to healthier practices. A descriptive analysis was performed considering the data from the 422-adult sample. I-CVIs (0.73-1), S-CVIs (0.93; 0.97) and the interviewees' analysis indicated that items are representative and clear, in addition to being suitable for application to the target audience. Tests confirmed sample adequacy to perform the EFA (KMO = 0.82; Bartlett's sphericity test, p < .001). The final validated model, with 16 items, sufficiently explained the variance and presented good reliability (Cronbach's α = 0.81; 95% CI 0.79 - 0.84). Women, older individuals, and with higher education had significantly higher scores, regardless of chronic diseases diagnosis (p < .001). This instrument is ready to be applied and easily reproduced, contributing to the assessment of KPB toward salt and sodium in Brazil.