Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Summer 7-2003

Journal / Book Title

Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior

Abstract

Objective

To explore potential predictors of adolescent fruit and vegetable intake by expanding on current theory and drawing from other adolescent research.

Design

This research reports on the baseline and interim data from a school-based intervention study. Data were collected through surveys administered to students at the beginning and end of their 7th-grade year.

Setting

The students attended 16 public schools in Minnesota.

Participants

Data were collected on 3878 students; approximately half were female and 67% were white. All students in the 7th-grade cohort were invited to participate in the surveys and over 94% completed both surveys.

Variables Measured

Our dependent variable, fruit and vegetable intake, was assessed by a validated fruit and vegetable food frequency scale. Predictive factors assessed included parenting style, spirituality/religiosity, depressive symptoms, and other commonly assessed predictors.

Analysis

Generalized linear mixed model regression. Omnibus test of association using P < .05 is reported.

Results

Subjective norms, barriers, knowledge, usual food choice, parenting style, spirituality /religiosity, and depressive symptoms were statistically significant predictors of intake. The model explained about 31% of the variance in fruit and vegetable consumption.

Conclusions and Implications

To better understand adolescents' fruit and vegetable intake, we must explore novel predictors. Our results need to be replicated, and more exploratory research in this field is needed.

DOI

10.1016/S1499-4046(06)60331-X

Published Citation

Lytle, Leslie A., Sherri Varnell, David M. Murray, Mary Story, Cheryl Perry, Amanda S. Birnbaum, and Martha Y. Kubik. "Predicting adolescents' intake of fruits and vegetables." Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior 35, no. 4 (2003): 170-178.

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