A comparison of drinking behavior using a harmonized methodology (Liq.In ⁷ ) in six countries

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Dietary Habits
• Global Health

Background:

• Understanding fluid intake patterns is crucial for public health and nutrition.
• Global variations in dietary habits necessitate country-specific analyses of fluid consumption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess drinking occasions, including volume, type, and context (with/without food, location), across six diverse countries.
• To identify distinct fluid consumption behaviors and their geographical variations.

Main Methods:

• A validated 7-day fluid intake record was completed by 10,521 participants (aged 4-65 years).
• Data collected included volume, fluid type, location, and association with food for each drinking event.
• Participating countries: Argentina, Brazil, China, Indonesia, Mexico, and Uruguay.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in fluid intake timing relative to meals were observed: China (66%) and Indonesia (58%) consumed most fluids without food, while Mexico (48%) and Argentina (45%) consumed more with meals.
• Indonesia reported the highest total fluid intake (TFI) median (2520 mL/day), and China the lowest (1138 mL/day).
• Beverage preferences varied, with Latin American countries favoring sweet drinks, while Indonesia showed a high preference for water with meals.

Conclusions:

• Three primary drinking behaviors were identified: consumption with meals, as a standalone activity, or as 'grazing' throughout the day.
• The majority of drinking occasions (over 75%) across most countries occurred at home.
• These findings highlight diverse global fluid intake behaviors, influenced by cultural and dietary contexts.