Eating Behaviors and Social Capital Are Associated With Fruit and Vegetable Intake Among Rural Adults

Abstract

Few studies have focused on determinants of fruit and vegetable intake in rural areas. This study examined the relationship between demographics, socioeconomic status, social capital, eating behaviors, and fruit and vegetable intake for a large rural sample. Data from 1220 rural adults participating in the 2006 Brazos Valley Community Health Assessment Survey were used. Multivariable regression results demonstrated eating a regular breakfast (P value ≤ 0.001) was positively and drinking sugar-sweetened beverages (P value = 0.010) was negatively associated with fruit and vegetable intake. Being female, older, and having higher levels of education and social capital were associated with consuming more fruit and vegetables. This analysis provides evidence that contextual aspects are important for understanding fruit and vegetable intake in rural areas.

Keywords:

• fruit and vegetable intakes
• fast food
• sugar-sweetened beverages
• breakfast
• social capital
• rural adults

Acknowledgments

This research was supported with funding from the National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities grant #5P20MD002295 and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Prevention Research Centers Program, through the Center for Community Health Development cooperative agreement #5U48DP000045.