Introdução alimentar precoce e o desenvolvimento de obesidade infantil: uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

Introduction: The introduction of food in early childhood is a crucial moment for a child's healthy development and is a determining factor in the formation of eating habits that will last throughout life. Objective: To analyze the scientific literature on the relationship between early food introduction and the development of childhood obesity, identifying the main risk and protective factors involved. Methodology: An integrative literature review was carried out, using an exploratory and descriptive approach, with bibliographic research in the Lilacs, PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The descriptors used included “early food introduction”, “childhood obesity”, “child development” and “child nutrition”. We selected studies published in the last 15 years (2009 to 2024), in Portuguese, English and Spanish, which analyzed the relationship between early food introduction and childhood obesity. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15 articles were analyzed in detail. Results: The results indicate that the early introduction of ultra-processed foods, before the age of six months, is strongly associated with an increased risk of childhood obesity, which can lead to chronic diseases in adulthood. The lack of adequate guidance and the influence of socio-economic and cultural factors are determining factors in the adoption of inadequate dietary practices. Breastfeeding, on the other hand, has been identified as a protective factor against obesity, highlighting the importance of public policies that encourage breastfeeding and promote nutritional education. Conclusion: In this sense, the studies analyzed reinforce the need for effective educational interventions to guide parents and caregivers on the importance of adequate food intake and continued breastfeeding. Implementing culturally adapted preventive strategies and restricting the marketing of ultra-processed foods to children are fundamental measures for reducing the prevalence of childhood obesity, thus promoting the health and well-being of future generations.