Association between bean consumption and metabolic syndrome in adults: Home Health Survey in Piauí

ABSTRACT Objective To verify the association between bean consumption and components of Metabolic Syndrome, as well as with the presence of Metabolic Syndrome diagnosed in adults. Methods Cross-sectional, population-based and household study, with data from the Home Health Survey in Piauí. 192 adults, both sexes, from Teresina in the state of Piauí participated. Demographic, socioeconomic and lifestyle data were investigated, using structured questionnaires, and anthropometric, biochemical and blood pressure data. The diagnosis of Metabolic Syndrome was in accordance with the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. The Chi-square test and Poisson regression were used to verify associations. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee (Opinion no. 2.552.426). Results The prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome was 31.2% (95% CI: 23.5-40.3) and was associated with education, being more predominant in individuals with a lower educational level (36.4%; p=0.0211). No associations were observed between Metabolic Syndrome and other demographic, socioeconomic and lifestyle variables. Bean consumption was not associated with Metabolic Syndrome components. However, individuals who consumed more than 110 kcal of beans/day had a prevalence ratio of Metabolic Syndrome 48% lower (PR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.29-0.91) compared to individuals who consumed less than 55 kcal of beans/day. Conclusion There was a high prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in the population, with a higher proportion of individuals with a lower educational level. The greater share of bean consumption in the diet was inversely associated with the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome, constituting a protective factor.