Evaluation of diet quality among intensive care and emergency professionals working night shifts

This study aimed to assess the diet quality of night-shift intensivist and emergency healthcare professionals working at a universitary Hospital and compare the different dietary assessment tools. A prospective cross-sectional study. Physicians, nurses, and nursing technicians of both sexes were included. Diet quality was assessed using the IQD-R and GDQS. Adjustments were made to the quantity intervals for food groups in each tool, considering that 12 h night shifts corresponded to 30% of total energy intake. A total of 135 professionals were included in the study, with 34 years, 78.5% female, and a BMI of 27.4 kg/m². Participants consumed 559 kcal, and 60% reported using food delivery services. The IQD-R and GDQS tools showed a significant and positive correlation. Furthermore, during this period, individuals exceeded recommended intakes of saturated fat, sodium, refined and baked grains, sweets and ice creams, sugar-sweetened beverages, and fried foods purchased outside the home. Despite differences in methodology, both tools highlighted the high intake of nutrients and foods harmful to health, classifying the diet quality of these individuals as nutritionally inadequate.