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

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.