Evaluation of the nutritional state and life habits of information technology workers in the city of Joinville-SC

Abstract

Objective: To assess the nutritional status of workers in a technology company and learn about their lifestyle habits, in order to promote improvements in their quality of life. Materials and methods: This is a cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach and non-probabilistic sampling of convenience, carried out through the application of a food frequency questionnaire and a questionnaire on life habits. Results: The sample consisted of 31 technology workers, with an average age of 30 years, of whom (54.8%) were overweight, including overweight and obesity. Regarding food consumption, the most consumed fresh and minimally processed foods, at least 4 to 5 times a week or every day, were milk, meat and / or eggs, rice, vegetables and greens. Only (32.3%) consume fruits, and legumes (45.1%) at least 4 to 5 times or every day of the week. Among the group of processed or ultra-processed, there was the highest consumption of bread, cakes (61.3%) for at least 4, 5 or more days a week. As for the investigated life habits, (67.7%) drink alcohol, (67.7%) practice some physical activity during the week, (29%) travel to work on foot or by bicycle, and (83.9 %), have habits of 2, 3 or more hours in their free time, spent with screens. Conclusion: Through the study, overweight was found in this population, as well as inadequacies in food consumption and lifestyle habits, which added to the sedentary work activity of these workers, can favor weight gain. However, it is expected that this work will instigate further investigations in this work scenario, in order to contribute to improving the quality of life of these workers.