Objective
To identify the nutritional status and dietary habits of male patients recovering from chemical dependency in an ambulatory treatment of an addition unit.
Methods
Crosssectional study with 25 male patients in ambulatorial treatment for chemical dependency. Anthropometric parameters (weight, height, waist circumference and body mass index) and body composition (bioelectrical impedance) were measured and dietary habits (Food Frequency Questionnaire) were investigated. Categorical variables are shown as frequencies and percentages and continuous variables as mean and standard deviation or as median and interquartile range.
Results
It was found a body mass index mean of 27.73 ± 4.15 kg/m2, with a prevalence of overweight in 88% of the sample. The waist circumference mean was 96.60 ± 9.84 cm and a percentual body fat mass of 23.24 ± 6.44. The sample majority [20 (80%)] refers do four or more meals a day and 72% reported an increased food intake during the period of abstinence. The preference for specific foods during the abstinence period was reported by 12 (48%) patients. Regarding the consumption of ultra-processed foods, there is a highlight daily consumption of French bread (68%), white pan bread (16%), artificial juices (48%), soft drinks (32%), high-fat cheese (36%), high-fat processed meat (36%), candy and gum (32%).
Conclusion
The study reveals a high prevalence of overweight and obesity, as well as altered waist circumference, increased food intake and daily and weekly consumption of ultra-processed foods.
Nutritional status; food habits; drug addiction