Adherence to a Mediterranean Dietary Pattern and Functional Parameters: A Cross-Sectional Study in an Older...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nutritional Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Diet and physical activity are key health determinants in older adults.
• The Mediterranean Dietary Pattern is linked to longevity and improved physical function.
• Sedentary behavior, indicated by sitting time, is a growing concern in aging populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between adherence to the Mediterranean Dietary Pattern and physical functioning, specifically handgrip strength.
• To examine the relationship between Mediterranean Diet adherence and sedentary behavior, measured by daily sitting time.
• To quantify these associations in a sample of adults aged 65 and older.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 1,491 older adults (≥ 65 years).
• Mediterranean Diet adherence assessed using the validated 14-item PREDIMED questionnaire.
• Handgrip strength measured with a Jamar Dynamometer; sitting time recorded as a sedentary behavior indicator.
• Multinomial logistic regressions used to analyze associations.

Main Results:

• Non-adherence to the Mediterranean Diet was significantly associated with lower handgrip strength (adjusted OR: 1.50; 95% CI: 1.09-2.05).
• Participants not adhering to the Mediterranean Diet also showed significantly longer sitting times (adjusted OR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.04-1.96).
• These findings indicate a link between dietary patterns and physical activity levels in older adults.

Conclusions:

• Non-adherence to the Mediterranean Dietary Pattern is linked to poorer physical function (lower handgrip strength) in older adults.
• Reduced adherence to the Mediterranean Diet is also associated with increased sedentary behavior (longer sitting time) in this population.
• Promoting the Mediterranean Diet may be a strategy to improve physical function and reduce sedentary time among seniors.