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Factors associated with fruit and vegetable consumption among adults
M Dehghan1, N Akhtar-Danesh, A T Merchant
1Departments of Medicine, Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. mahshid.dehghan@phri.ca
Summary
Most Canadian adults do not consume enough fruits and vegetables daily. Higher fruit and vegetable intake is linked to better health behaviors and certain socio-demographic factors in Canada.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Fruit and vegetable consumption is a key indicator of healthy eating.
- Extensive research highlights the protective effects of fruits and vegetables against noncommunicable diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between fruit and vegetable intake (FVI) and health behaviors.
- To examine the relationship between FVI and socio-demographic factors in adult Canadians.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), Cycle 3.1.
- Assessed daily FVI in 15,512 healthy adults (aged 18-64) using a 20-question frequency questionnaire.
- Employed multiple logistic regression models to determine associations between FVI, socio-economic factors, and lifestyle behaviors.
Main Results:
- 77% of Canadian adults consumed fruits and vegetables less than five times daily.
- Females showed significantly higher odds of consuming fruits, vegetables, and combined FV compared to males.
- Higher FVI was reported by single/never married individuals, those with higher education, never smokers, former drinkers, and older adults.
Conclusions:
- A significant association exists between fruit and vegetable intake and socio-economic/lifestyle factors in Canada.
- A substantial gap between recommended and actual FV intake highlights a public health concern.
- Tailored nutrition education at individual and community levels is crucial to improve FV consumption in Canadian populations.
