Dietary diversity: case study of fruit and vegetable consumption by chiropractic patients.
BACKGROUND
A distinct health advantage has been linked with eating a wide variety of fresh fruit and vegetables.


OBJECTIVE
This study explores the diversity of fruits and vegetables consumed by chiropractic patients and inquires into their preferred purchasing patterns.


METHODS
A case study that included patients attending 24 chiropractic practices in 5 states and the Australian Capital Territory was undertaken. Seven hundred eighty-two patients were asked to complete a questionnaire providing general information about their life-style and particular information about the number of servings of fruits and vegetables that they usually consumed.


RESULTS
Although overall chiropractic patients reported adhering to a number of healthy life-style behaviors, participants in this study would benefit from eating a greater diversity of fruits and vegetables.


CONCLUSIONS
In view of the substantial health benefits associated with eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, it is suggested that chiropractic patients be encouraged to follow a color code system for purchasing their fresh produce.
Jamison
Jennifer R
JR
Department of Complementary Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences, RMIT, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D020958:Australian Capital Territory; D004034:Diet Surveys; D005247:Feeding Behavior / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D005638:Fruit; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D026882:Manipulation, Chiropractic; D008875:Middle Aged; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D014675:Vegetables