Consideration on food intake in Icapara and Pontal de Ribeira, State of S. Paulo, Brazil

Abstract

The dietary survey carried out among 105 familles from Icapara, and 56 from Pontal (Region of the Ribeira River Valley, state of S. Paulo, Brazil) showed some nutritional deficiencies. The food intake of 24 hours was obtained by applying the method of direct weighing combined with the recall method. Foodstuffs of greater consumption were: cassava flour, fish and polished rice. The inadequacy of diet as regards some nutrients, such as vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin C and Calcium, is connected with food habits. These populations rarely include milk, vegetables or fruit in their daily diet. Animal protein was not a problem in the studied communities because fish was greatly consumed. An integrated program of Nutrition and Health Education is fundamental to improve dietary and social standards in these populations.