Are there socio-demographic differences in salt behaviours and fruit and vegetable consumption in Australian adults? A nationally representative cross-sectional survey.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Diets low in fruit and vegetables and high in salt are among the top dietary risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Using a nationally representative sample of Australians, this study aimed to describe self-reported intake of fruit and vegetables, and knowledge, attitudes and behaviours related to salt intake, and determine if there were socio-demographic differences between population subgroups.

METHODS:

A 2016 cross-sectional survey of Australian adults aged 18 years and over, which comprised 160 questions, including socio-demographic and health-related questions. Descriptive statistics (mean, 95% confidence interval, %) were calculated. Weighted-adjusted logistic regression models were used to determine if there were socio-demographic differences in salt behaviours and fruit and vegetable consumption.

RESULTS:

A total of 1217 participants completed the survey (51% female). Less than 8% of participants reported consuming the recommended 2 or more serves of fruit and 5 or more serves of vegetables. Almost 60% of participants frequently added salt during cooking/meal preparation and 42% of respondents frequently placed a salt-shaker on the table at mealtimes. There were no consistent patterns between socio-demographic factors and measures of fruit and vegetable consumption and salt behaviours. Differences in at least one measure were found for sex, age, location, education level and weight category.

CONCLUSIONS:

There were no consistent patterns between socio-demographic factors and salt behaviours and fruit and vegetable intake. Less than recommended intakes of fruit and vegetables and frequent discretionary salt use are placing Australians at risk of diet-related NCDs. Broad population-based policies and programs to improve fruit and vegetable intake and salt behaviours are needed to improve Australian's diets.

• Authors: Emalie Rosewarne, Joseph Alvin Santos, Annet Hoek, Carley Grimes, Caryl Nowson, Jacqui Webster, Kristy A Bolton
• Journal: Nutrition journal (Nutr J) Vol. 20 Issue 1 Pg. 77 (09 08 2021) ISSN: 1475-2891 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 34496816 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
• Copyright: © 2021. The Author(s).

Chemical References

• Sodium Chloride, Dietary

Topics

• Adult
• Australia
• Cross-Sectional Studies
• Demography
• Diet
• Feeding Behavior
• Fruit
• Humans
• Sodium Chloride, Dietary
• Vegetables