FOOD AND NUTRITIONAL EDUCATION GROUP AS A CARE TOOL FOR PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC DISEASES NOT TRANSMISSIBLE IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

Abstract

The current epidemiological scenario is characterized by the high prevalence of Chronic Noncommunicable Diseases, being one of the biggest public health problems in Brazil and in the world. The treatment of these diseases involves changes in lifestyle, including healthy eating and physical activity, however, this change is complex and involves several factors. The literature points out health education activities as a form of intervention to change habits, as it contributes to the autonomy of individuals. The objective of the work is to report the experience of a Nutritionist Resident in Primary Care, inserted in a Family Health Expanded Nucleus of a Basic Health Unit, with a group of food and nutrition education. The activities took place from April 2018 to December 2019 and were theoretically based on the Food Guide for the Brazilian

Population and the Work Instruction in Groups for Food and Nutrition Actions in Primary Care, both from the Ministry of Health. exchange of knowledge, generation of confidence and ability to make healthy nutritional choices. Among the users who managed to have greater continuity in the group and who practiced physical activity regularly, there was a reduction in the Body Mass Index, improvement in the glycemic, lipid and blood pressure profile. It was noticed with these findings, the existence of an environment with great potential to bring critical reflection about the daily life of the community, being also a great therapeutic space for patients with chronic diseases and for the Promotion of Adequate and Healthy Eating.