Dietary Pattern and Food Consumption among Kermanshah Households, 2011

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 cluster-sampling. Data were collected using demographic questionnaire and food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and through face to face interview. Regression and X2 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.