Energy and protein intake in the Colombian population: results of the 2015 ENSIN population survey

The present study was aimed at (1) the differences between current weight v. ideal weight, (2) total energy intake and comparing it with required energy (Rkeer), (3) absolute protein intake in g/kg per d and g/1000 calories, (4) how energy and protein intake relate to the nutritional status of the subjects in terms of overall overweight (OEW) [overweight + obesity] and conservative overweight (CEW) [obesity] and (5) the contribution (%) of protein to total energy intake based on the acceptable macronutrient distribution range (AMDR). A dietary study was carried out in Colombia with 29 259 subjects between 1 and 64 years of age, based on cross-sectional data collected in 2015 by a 24-h dietary recall (24HR) administered as part of the National Nutrition Survey. Energy and protein intake did not differ by nutritional status. In the general population, energy intake was 2117 kcal/d (95 % CI 1969, 2264). The total protein intake was 64.3 g/d (95 % CI 61.4, 67.3). Adequate energy intake ranged from 90 to 100 %, except for the 1-4-year-old group, which ranged from 144 to 155 %. Protein intake was 1.64 g/kg per d (95 % CI 1.53, 1.75). The mean AMDR for protein to total energy intake was 13.3 % (95 % CI 12.9, 13.7). Excess weight began during the first 4 years of age. In conclusion, it is worth reviewing and updating energy and protein intake recommendations and dietary guidelines for the Colombian population and designing and modifying public policy.