Mediterranean Diet–Consistent Behavior and Its Associated Factors Among Chinese Americans: A Cross-Sectional Study
Yan Su, Yeojeong Nam, Kristen A. Sethares, Peeranuch LeSeure, Brian J AyotteIntroduction:
Little is known about Mediterranean diet (MedDiet)-consistent behavior and associated factors among Chinese Americans. This study examined MedDiet-consistent behavior, MedDiet knowledge, and predictors of MedDiet-consistent behavior among Chinese Americans.
Methods:
A cross-sectional survey of 53 Chinese Americans assessed MedDiet-consistent behavior, knowledge, Social Cognitive Theory (SCT)-based factors, and perceptions of MedDiet adoption.
Results:
Participants demonstrated moderate MedDiet-consistent behavior (7.5/14) and moderate MedDiet knowledge (29.2/42). Percentage meeting the recommendation was highest for limiting red meat and sugar-sweetened beverages and lowest for wine and olive oil intake. A composite personal score comprising self-efficacy, readiness to change, taste liking, and outcome expectations was associated with MedDiet-consistent behavior (OR = 2.16, p = .020), whereas MedDiet knowledge was not. Open-ended responses were generally consistent with quantitative findings.
Discussion:
Personal factor may be more important than knowledge in shaping MedDiet-consistent behavior among Chinese Americans. Integrating wine and olive oil consumption into Chinese dietary practice may present challenges.