This study sought to identify the prevalence of excess weight and food consumption patterns among adolescents attending public schools in northern Minas Gerais state. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a random and representative sample of adolescents. Demographic and economic data were collected. Food consumption was evaluated by applying a semi-quantitative food questionnaire. Body weight and height were measured to assess the nutritional status based on the Body Mass Index (BMI) by Age. The sexes were compared by Student's t test (comparison of samples) and chi-square test (goodness of fit) at a level of significance of p <0.05. 535 adolescents were evaluated and prevalence of excess weight was detected in 18.5% of the group. BMI (p = 0,001) was statistically different between the sexes and higher for girls. The average energy consumption of the group was 3096.30 kcal/day. Fiber consumption was insufficient in 35% of the adolescents, vitamin A and calcium in 80% and unsaturated fats in 100%. Carbohydrate and cholesterol were consumed in excess by 20.6% and 48%, respectively. The prevalence of excess weight and inadequate food consumption is of great concern for the population studied and requires appropriate nutritional intervention.
Adolescents; Food consumption; Nutritional status
