Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the media´s influence over consumption of ultra-processed foods and interference of nutritional status of children students. Methods: This study is descriptive and has a transversal approach. The researchers collected anthropometric data, consumption of ultra-processed foods and use of electronic devices. The research was carried out in a private school in the City of Teresina, capital of the Piauí State, Brazil. We selected 75 children students of morning and afternoon shifts, of both sexes, aged 7 to 10 years. Results: A higher prevalence of overweight was observed, being 22.7% (17) overweight, 14.7% (11) obesity and 10.7% (8) severe obesity. Regarding waist circumference, 36% (27) of children students presented a risk for cardiovascular diseases. Regarding fat percentage, there was a very high prevalence of 46.7% (35). There was a correlation between ultra-processed consumption and use of electronic devices as well as between the use of electronic devices and nutritional status. Conclusion: Ultra-processed foods are strongly inserted in the food consumption of children students and the choice of these foods has a great influence of the media. Most of the children surveyed are overweight, increasing the risk of developing chronic non-communicable diseases.