Fat and alcohol intake in the Basque Country

A cross-sectional nutritional survey was carried out in the Basque Country, on a random sample of the population aged 25-60 years (n = 2348). Socioeconomic data, anthropometric measurements and food consumption data were collected. 24-h recall on three non-consecutive days plus a food frequency questionnaire were used for dietary assessment. The participation rate was 73.4%. Mean energy intake for men was 2944 kcal and 2049 kcal for women, decreasing with age. Energy distribution pattern (non-alcohol) showed 16% from protein; 38% from fat: 13% SFA; 16% MUFA and 9% PUFA; carbohydrates supplied 46% energy. Alcohol intake was 8%. Better-educated people had higher intakes of SFA, cholesterol and sugar (P < 0.001). Consumption of meat (162 g/person/d) and fish (89 person/d) were high. Cereals and potatoes were the main sources of energy in the Basque diet (23.24%) followed by meat, fish and eggs (20%). Percentage contribution to energy intake from meat was higher in men than in women, and also energy intake from alcohol. Women obtain more energy from milk. Edible fat was the main source of fat in the diet (46%) followed by meat (22%). Milk products and meat are the main sources of SFA in the Basque diet. Males had a high intake of alcohol, especially in the 35-44-year age group. Alcohol consumers usually drink every day and often not in the home.