ASSOCIAÇÃO ENTRE ADESÃO AO PADRÃO DIETÉTICO DASH E FATORES DE RISCO CARDIOVASCULAR EM CRIANÇAS E ADOLESCENTES COM CARDIOPATIA CONGÊNITA

Background: Over the past few decades, adherence to the DASH diet has proven significant
in both the treatment and prevention of non-communicable chronic diseases. There have been
numerous studies in different populations, however, these investigations have not yet been
directed towards children with congenital heart disease (CHD). Aims: This study aimed to assess
the association between adherence to the DASH diet and cardiovascular risk factors in children
and adolescents with CHD. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of children and adolescents
aged 5-18 years was conducted. Dietary intake was evaluated using a Food Frequency
Questionnaire (FFQ) and adherence to the DASH diet was calculated. Data on cholesterol,
triglycerides, fasting glucose, blood pressure, C-reactive protein, and waist circumference were
collected. Correlation was evaluated using Spearman´s test. P<0,05 was considered significant. Results: A total of 109 children and adolescents with a median age 13,05 years. A low overall adherence of children to the DASH diet was observed (median 31, interquartile range [25,36.5]. This was evidenced by the relatively low average score, which did not exceed 31 points, even in the tertile with the highest adherence. DASH diet and cardiovascular risk factors were not correlated. Conclusion: This study revealed a lack of adherence to a healthy eating pattern among children with CHD, highlighting the need for interventions to promote healthy eating habits from childhood.