Determinants of health-related quality of life among adolescents: The role of the Mediterranean diet

Abstract

BackgroundA number of physical, emotional, cognitive and psychological changes shape the adolescence phase, which may influence health and well-being. Therefore, it is important to develop healthy eating habits that will persist into adulthood. ObjectiveThis study was conducted in order to investigate in depth the association between components of the Mediterranean diet (MD) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), along with its different subscales, among Lebanese adolescent students attending schools in Tripoli, North Lebanon. MethodsA cross-sectional survey was undertaken among 798 teenagers aged 11 to 18. All responded to a questionnaire that evaluated their HRQoL, sociodemographic characteristics and adherence to the Mediterranean diet. ResultsThe results of the study revealed that only 15.9% of the students had a high adherence to the MD. With regard to the components of the MD associated with the HRQoL, it was revealed that fruit intake by the students (once daily) was associated with a better general well-being (P = 0.047). In addition, fish consumption (two to three times per week) and daily intake of a dairy product for breakfast were positively associated with the total KIDSCREEN score (P < 0.001 and P = 0.003, respectively). Finally, skipping breakfast was correlated with a poorer general well-being (P = 0.013). ConclusionOur results suggest a strong correlation between MD adherence and HRQoL in Lebanese adolescents. However, future studies are warranted in order to strengthen the evidence of this association.