Effectiveness of the promoting adequate and healthy eating (PAAS) program in primary care: community randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effectiveness of the Adequate and Healthy Diet Promotion Program (PAAS) on food intake and nutritional status of primary health care (PHC) individuals in small and medium-sized cities of Minas Gerais, Brazil.MethodsA randomized controlled community trial was conducted in the PHC of Nova Lima and Carmo do Cajuru-MG. Basic health units were allocated to the control group (CG) and intervention group (IG). The CG was offered traditional activities of the health service; the IG conducted innovative actions of the PAAS program. The IG professionals were qualified for the development of the program, which lasted five months and was based on the "Instructive: Methodology of Group Work for Food and Nutrition Actions in Primary Health Care." It promotes the empowerment and autonomy of healthy food choices. Sociodemographic and food consumption data were evaluated, and weight, height, and waist circumference were measured before and after the intervention. Intragroup and intergroup differences were also evaluated.ResultsOf 163 individuals, 99 were re-evaluated (CG=39; GI=60), mostly women and adults. After the intervention, IG individuals increased the frequency of fresh food consumption (3.2 times/week to 3.4 times/week; p=0.044) and regular fruit consumption (46.7% to 73.3%; p=0.002). CG individuals had reduced weekly consumption of ultra-processed foods (1.3 times/week to 1.0 times/week; p=0.031).ConclusionThe PAAS program improved dietary characteristics of PHC individuals. Therefore, its application in other municipalities is recommended to improve the health of the population.