Adolescent runway models: How is the food intake of this group? [Adolescentes modelos de passarela: Como é o consumo alimentar deste grupo?]

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the adequacy of energy, macro and micronutrients intake in adolescent runway models. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 33 models and 33 non-models, with ages ranging from 15 to 18 years, paired by age and body mass index (BMI). Food intake was evaluated by a three-day food record. The average energy values were estimated in kcal, the proportional values of macronutrients as to the total caloric value of the consumed diet were also calculated, as well as the mean/medium values of the following micronutrients: calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, folate, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin A and vitamin E. Results: Among the studied adolescents, 24% presented BMI below the minimum values for the age. Mean energy intake was lower among the models compared to nonmodels (1,480.93±582.95 versus 1,973.00±557.63 kcal) (p<0.05). The fat intake, higher than the recommended, was similar in both groups (30.3% in models and 36.4% of the non-model adolescents - p>0.05). The inadequate consumption of micronutrients such as calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, liposoluble vitamins, folate and ascorbic acid was observed in both groups. Conclusions: The low energy intake (kcal) among models and the insufficient intake of minerals and vitamins are red flags for model agencies to be more committed to the health of these adolescents, ensuring that they get nutritional and medical follow-up.