Fruit and Vegetable Consumption among Community Dwelling Elderly in an Iranian Population

Abstract

Objectives: Fruits and vegetables are important components of a
healthy diet, and their consumption could help prevent a wide
range of diseases. In this study, fruit and vegetable consumption in
elderly people were assessed.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly
(≥65 year-old) people who came to pharmacies affiliated with
Isfahan University of Medical Science. Face-to-face interview using
a questionnaire including food frequency questionnaire and demographic
and socioeconomic variables was administered.
Results: Of the total 504 participants, 56.3% were male and 43.7%
were female. The mean daily serving of fruit and vegetable (combined)
consumption in men and women were 4.58±1.31 and
4.65±1.28, respectively. The prevalence of daily fruit and vegetable
intake of 5 or more servings was 37.9%. Low educational and
low income participants ate lower fruits and vegetables (combined).
Age, gender, smoking, and chronic disease had no significant
influence on their consumption. Educational level was the
only independent predictor of fruit and vegetable consumption
(OR: 3.81, CI: 1.64-8.84).
Conclusions: Most elderly people consumed less than the recommended
levels of fruits and vegetables. From the point of view of
prevention of chronic disease, health education programs which
targeted elderly people particularly for those at the risk of low
consumption are needed and recommended.
Keywords: Fruit consumption; Vegetable; Elderly.