Ultraprocessed foods and nutritional profile of patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment in western Bahia - Brazil

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major global public health problem, due to the high prevalence and incidence rates. Nutrition for these patients plays a very important role, as it improves the quality of life and helps in the treatment. Objective: To identify the consumption of ultraprocessed foods and the nutritional profile of patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis in the West of Bahia. Methodology: A cross - sectional study with adult and elderly patients, enrolled in a hemodialysis unit, in the city of Barreiras - Bahia. A structured questionnaire was applied that contained questions related to sociodemographic and behavioral variables and a dietary inquiry through two 24-hour dietary reminders. The foods consumed were classified into four groups: in natura or minimally processed; Ingredients; processed and ultraprocessed. Results: The study consisted of 40 individuals, of both sexes, with a higher prevalence of males (55.0%) and age range of 36-59 (55%). The average daily energy consumption per capita was 1,336.1 kcal, of which 61.5% came from fresh or minimally processed foods, 3.6% from ingredients, 13.5% from processed foods and 21.4% from foods ultraprocessed. Conclusion: It can be observed that the consumption of ultraprocessed foods in these patients in hemodialysis was expressive with this, there is a need for food and nutritional education actions aimed at this group, as an incentive to develop adequate food practices for this public.