Estado nutricional de escolares do ensino fundamental: um panorama sobre saúde alimentar

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze the nutritional status of middle school students based on recent scientific evidence, discussing the main dietary, socioeconomic, environmental, and behavioral factors related to nutritional changes in this population. To achieve this, a bibliographic review was conducted using databases such as Capes Journals, Scopus, Medline PubMed, and Web of Science, considering articles published between 2021 and 2025 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish that addressed the evaluation, prevalence, and determinants of the nutritional status of schoolchildren. The results revealed the coexistence of malnutrition, overweight, and obesity, characterizing the double burden of malnutrition observed in different social and economic contexts. A high prevalence of excess weight associated with the consumption of ultra-processed foods, sedentary behavior, and low levels of physical activity was identified, especially in urban areas, while nutritional deficits remain frequent among socially vulnerable populations. In addition, the studies indicated that nutritional status directly influences students’ physical, cognitive, and academic development. The analysis also highlighted the strategic role of schools, families, and public policies in promoting healthy eating habits and preventing nutritional disorders. It is concluded that the nutritional status of schoolchildren is determined by multiple interrelated factors, requiring integrated actions among education, health, and social assistance sectors, strengthening the school as an essential space for health promotion and quality of life.