Eating habits of heavy industry workers

Abstract

Abstract A balanced diet that can satisfy energy and nutrient requirements should be the main component of a healthy lifestyle, especially for physical workers. We aimed to assess coke plant workers' nutritional habits on the basis of 24-hour dietary recalls. Workers were performing similar physical activities and were exposed to a similar environment, measured with 1-hydroxypyrene in urine samples. For each worker, 3 records were collected (2 random weekdays and 1 holiday). Dietary recalls were analyzed using the dietetic program (DietPro) and Statistica 13 software. 53 men, aged 20 - 60, employed at the coke plant were enrolled in the study between April and June 2018. An Average 1-hydroxypyrene concentration was 2.1µg/g creatinine (SD 4.33). Mean BMI was 26.1 and 36.3% of participants were overweight. The average caloric value of recalls was 2594 kcal. Proportions of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats were disturbed. The highest average intake was noted for fats 44% ± 5.7%, with a maximal value of 56%. The proportion of proteins on average reached 37%± 5.6% of total energy intake, the lowest intake was 25% and maximal 49%. Higher intake was noted for younger workers (<40 years old, p < 0,01). The younger population was eating significantly more animal proteins (p < 0,01). The average intake of carbohydrates was 18% ± 2.8%. Vegetable intake ranged from 0g to 541g per day (median value 113g). Fruits were underrepresented in workers' diet with a median of 5g per day and maximal intake reaching 193g. The intake of B vitamins was significantly higher among younger workers. Nutrition habits of the analyzed group stand out many dietetic recommendations from proportions of macronutrients and food fiber to low mineral elements intake. Though there are plenty of different educational programs that promote a healthy lifestyle and healthy eating none of them are designed for working-age men, especially for physical workers. Key messages Type of diet described in the study is connected to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, especially in combination with exposition to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. There is a need for organized education for heavy industry workers.