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Trends in dietary patterns and diet-related behaviors in China
In this study by Bu et al. (2021), the authors investigated how dietary-related behaviors impacted cardio-metabolic diseases by examining data (consumed foods, frequency of intake, weight, timing, location, method of preparation, preferences, nutritional knowledge, and structure) from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (1997-2011). The study revealed that nutritional trends favored the intake of dairy products, fruit, snacks, beverages, and fast food more substantially than rice, which had a declining rate of consumption. This demonstrated an increase in the rate and diversity of current food categories, frequency of eating, eating at home, and cooking methods employed in preparing food. Furthermore, surveyed participants demonstrated a preference for carbohydrate-dense foods (fruits, vegetables) and energy-dense foods (beverages, snacks, meat), denoting a shift towards a Western-styled diet (high intake of animal-based food sources and fats) from a diet that is mainly based on plants. An overall substantial increase in fat intake concurrent with a substantial reduction in energy, protein, and carbohydrate intake was also found. The authors conclude that major changes have been observed in the dietary pattern and subsequent related behaviors in the Chinese population, with trends favoring enhanced modernization and dietary diversity. [NPID: Cardiometabolic risks, dietary behaviors, dietary patterns, fat, nutrition transition, China]
Year: 2021
