Programa de comedor comunitario saludable para niños y ancianos del Recinto Quevedo-Samborondón

Abstract

Malnutrition is a problem that includes undernutrition, overweight and obesity affecting the population, especially children and older adults. In rural areas such as Recinto Quevedo, Samborondon, the risk is higher associated with socioeconomic limitations. A cross-sectional, quantitative and descriptive study was carried out with the objective of designing a healthy breakfast program to improve the quality of life of children and older students through the evaluation of nutritional status using anthropometric measurement and Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) nutritional screening. The results indicated that 30% of school children showed malnutrition and 50% of older adults were overweight or obese. In addition, high consumption of ultra-processed food and low protein intake were identified. A manual for community canteen was developed that includes an accessible cyclical menu and information capsules on Good Manufacturing Practices to improve food quality and safety. It was concluded that it is essential to implement a community canteen with sustainable strategies to promote local foods and establish nutritional monitoring to improve the quality of life in the community. Keywords: Nutrition, Malnutrition, Healthy canteens, Food security.