[Factors associated with fruit and vegetable intake among adults in a southern Brazilian city].
The study aimed to describe the frequency of fruit and vegetable intake among adults (20-69 years of age) and to identify associated factors. This population-based study in 2006 included 972 adults in Pelotas, Southern Brazil. Consumption of fruits and vegetables was evaluated with three questions on habitual food intake during the year prior to the interview. The outcome variable was regular consumption of fruits and vegetables. Only one in five adults (20.9%) reported consuming fruits and vegetables regularly. Female gender, age 60 years or older, higher socioeconomic status, former smoking, and physical activity were associated with the outcome variable. According to the results, fruit and vegetable intake among adults fails to meet current Ministry of Health recommendations, particularly among male, young, poor, and physically inactive adults. Interventions to encourage healthy diet are urgently needed.
Neutzling
Marilda Borges
MB
Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS, Brazil. mneutzling@terra.com.br
Rombaldi
Airton José
AJ
Azevedo
Mario Renato
MR
Hallal
Pedro C
PC
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001938:Brazil; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004034:Diet Surveys; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D005260:Female; D005638:Fruit; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009752:Nutritional Status; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014675:Vegetables; D055815:Young Adult