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Published on: June 4, 2014
Stages of change for sugar and fat reduction in an adolescent sample
1Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London Medical School, UK.
Objectives:
To apply the stages of change model for sugar and fat intakes in a sample of adolescents and to assess the factors influencing young people's ability to change their eating patterns.
Basic Research Design:
Self complete questionnaires assessed young people's readiness to change both their sugar and fat intakes in a cross sectional study.
Participants:
The study sample consisted of 479 young people aged 13-14 years attending four mixed ability state secondary schools in Camden, North London.
Results:
A sizeable proportion of the sample were either in the precontemplation or action stages for their sugar or fat consumption. There were significant differences between the males and females. Application of the stages of change model produced very similar results for both sugar and fat consumption. The main reason given for reducing sugar or fat intakes was a desire to improve appearance through losing weight. Direct health concerns were less of a concern. A range of social and structural factors were identified by the sample as having an influence over their ability to make future dietary changes.
Conclusions:
Future oral health promotion interventions designed to promote healthier eating practices amongst young people need to recognise the various stages of change young people may be in and develop appropriate measures to meet their needs.
