Investigation of the effect of ultra processed food consumption on obesity

Ultra-processed foods that have become widespread with the developing economy; started to take more place in our lives. The aim of this study is to determine the ultra-processed food consumption of adult individuals who applied to a Healthy Living Center in Gaziantep; is to determine the relationship between obesity status and some other variables. The research was carried out on a total of 393 people (206 women, 52.4%; 187 men, 47.6%) aged 18-64 who applied to this center. The questionnaire questioning the general characteristics, anthropometric measurements, physical activity status and nutritional habits of the individuals included in the research was applied by face-to-face interview method. To determine the physical activity status of individuals; In order to determine the International Physical Activity Questionnaire- Short Form (IPAQ-Short Form) and food consumption habits; Food Consumption Frequency Form was applied. According to the body mass index (BMI), World Health Organization (WHO) classification, 49.76% of individuals are overweight and 25.1% are obese. It was observed that the daily energy and macronutrient intakes of the participants were above the recommended amount, and their fiber intake was insufficient. While all participants met their vitamin A, B2, niacin, B12, sodium and phosphorus needs in the recommended amount; Vitamin D, vitamin E, B1, folate, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, magnesium and iron can not meet the recommended amount. In addition, biotin and B6 intakes of female participants are also insufficient. According to the analysis result; 34.27% of daily energy intake; 28.1% of sugar; 17.89% of sodium; 35.35% of saturated fat; 14.15% of cholesterol is obtained from ultra-processed foods. It was observed that there was a statistically linear and significantly high correlation between the BMI and ultra-processed food consumption values of the participants (p<0.05). There was a statistically negative and significant relationship between IPAQ score and ultra-processed food consumption levels (p<0.05). At the same time, when ultra-processed food consumption amounts were compared according to abdominal obesity classification results; Statistically significant differences were found between them in the linear direction (p<0.05). Based on these results, in order to maintain a healthy life, awareness of the society should be created and awareness of benefit/harm should be created.