Problemas nutricionales en adolescentes: Una revisión sistemática

Abstract

Introduction. Nutritional problems in adolescents refer to a range of nutrition-related disorders and conditions that can affect adolescents’ health and well-being. These include obesity, malnutrition, deficiencies of specific nutrients like iron or vitamin D, and eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia, among others. Objective: To identify the nutritional problems present in adolescents, the factors that influence their development and prevention strategies. Methods: The PRISMA method was applied, studies from different digital bases were evaluated, and the selection process was based on inclusion criteria: studies published in the last five years, scientific articles or theses in English or Spanish, and the study population should have involved adolescents. The studies were summarized in matrices, and their results were compared. Results: The most common nutritional problems include malnutrition, underweight, overweight, and obesity. Megarexia, bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa were also detected. Inadequate eating behaviors and lack of physical activity were the main factors related to nutritional problems. As for prevention strategies, they recommend nutritional education in the school environment from an early age. Conclusions: Identifying nutritional problems and the propitiating factors that favor implementing of strategies to prevent and/or reverse them. The most effective prevention strategy is nutrition education, with the guidance of teachers and parents being of vital importance. Keywords: adolescence, adolescent nutrition, overweight, malnutrition, nutritional disorders.