[Dietary pattern and food consumption among Kermanshah Households, 2011]

ABSTRACT

Identification of dietary patterns and food groups' consumption can be beneficial in improving public health. This study aimed to evaluate the daily dietary pattern of households in Kermanshah, 2011. A total of 500 households in Kermanshah/Iran were selected through multi-stage clustersampling. Data were collected using demographic questionnaire and food frequency questionnaire [FFQ] and through face to face interview. Regression and X[2] tests were applied for statistical analysis. In whole, 477 households with mean family size of 4.3 +/- 1.5 person completed the study. Consumption of vegetables in 78%, fruits in 23.3%, meat in 34.7%, dairy products in 44% and grains in 25% of families were less than the recommended levels in food guide pyramid. Consumption of dairy products showed a significant positive correlation with socio-economic statues [P=0.009] and educational level of the father of family [p<0.01]. Furthermore, significant correlation was seen between fruits consumption and parents educational level [p=0.002]. In general, consumption of one or more food groups was less than the dietary guide line level in 40% of households, while it was acceptable in 44% and was more than the recommended level in 16% of households. In Spite of all efforts for modifying dietary pattern, there is still a big gap between guidelines and national dietary habits. Increasing public nutritional knowledge in regard to healthy eating is necessary and highly recommended