Fruit and Vegetable Consumption Behavior Among Asian Americans: A Thematic Analysis

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Nutrition Science
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables (F & V) is 400g/day for adults.
• Limited research exists on F & V consumption patterns among Asian Americans (AAs).
• AAs are a diverse and growing population in the US, necessitating targeted health practice research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review and thematic analysis of F & V consumption among Asian Americans.
• To examine the prevalence, consequences, determinants, and interventions related to F & V intake in AAs.
• To identify research gaps and the need for culturally appropriate interventions.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review of peer-reviewed literature over the past 15 years.
• Thematic analysis of 33 selected studies.
• Focus on F & V consumption behavior in Asian American populations.

Main Results:

• Prevalence of recommended F & V consumption among AAs ranged from 0.5% to 20%.
• Negative correlations observed between F & V intake and Body Mass Index (BMI) and chronic diseases.
• Significant associations found between F & V intake and self-reported health.
• Only one intervention study was identified, targeting a small AA subgroup.

Conclusions:

• There is a significant gap in understanding F & V consumption among diverse Asian American subgroups.
• Urgent need for research into specific AA subgroups' dietary behaviors.
• Development of culturally appropriate, theory-based interventions is crucial for promoting F & V intake in AAs.