Fruit and vegetable intake in the Mexican population: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Survey, 2006

Abstract

ObjectiveTo quantify fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake in the Mexican population, ages 1 to 59 years. Material and methods: Using dietary information (Semiquantitative 7‐days Food Frequency Questionnaire) from the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey, 2006, F&V intake (grams) was computed, and compliance with international (WHO and AHA) recommendations (CIR) was ascertained. Linear regression and ordinals models were used to calculate intake and compliance, considering the study design effect.ResultsThe average dietary intake ranged 70‐100g for fruits, and 14‐50g for vegetables, for different age groups. The average F & V intake was 88.3g in preschool‐age and, 92.5 in school‐age children, 129.2g in adolescent and 155.4g in adults. The subgroups with the lowest intakes and compliance were the northern region, rural areas, and the quintile with the lowest wellbeing conditions. Relative to the CIR, the intake of F&V amounted to 26.7% in adolescents, 35% in adults and preschoolers, and 18% in school‐age children.ConclusionsLess than one third of the Mexican population had an adequate intake of F&V. School‐age children had the lowest intake, relative to CIR, of all the subgroups. Given the high prevalence of overweight and obesity in all age groups, developing and implementing strategies and programs aimed are increasing the intake of these food groups is a national priority.