Uma revisão sistemática sobre insegurança alimentar e obesidade em adultos e idosos

Abstract

Objective: To assess the association between food and nutrition insecurity (FNI) and obesity in adults and the elderly through a systematic literature review. Methodology: Searches were conducted in the Web of Science, MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS) databases to identify original studies published between 2019 and 2023 that addressed the relationship between FNI and obesity in adults and the elderly. With the help of the Rayyan Intelligent Systematic Review® tool, the records were organized, duplicates were eliminated, and the eligibility criteria were applied. Results: Initially, 116 articles met the eligibility criteria and were read in full. Of these, 36 studies aligned with the research objective. The analysis revealed a positive association between FNI and obesity, with emphasis on women, especially those with a lower level of education, in a vulnerable socioeconomic condition, head of household, and aged 37 years. Food choices were influenced by the low cost of ultra-processed foods (UPF), which, due to their high energy density and empty calories, contribute to weight gain. Conclusion: The systematic review confirms a significant association between IAN and the development of obesity, especially among women, and highlights the urgent need for further studies to deepen the understanding of the mechanisms behind this relationship, as well as strategies to mitigate the effects of IAN by considering its influence on the emergence of obesity in the population