Socioeconomic status, lifestyle characteristics and adherence to the Mediterranean diet among Greece adolescents

Abstract

ObjectiveThe study aims to assess the relationship between socioeconomic status, lifestyle characteristics and adherence to the Mediterranean diet within a representative sample of secondary school children from Attica, Greece. Research methods & proceduresIn this cross-sectional school-based study, 2088 adolescents aged 12–18 from different socioeconomic status areas of Attica in Greece have been recruited. The study occurred in May-December 2021 when schools reopened due to COVID-19 closure. Socioeconomic status was determined using Family Affluence Scale (FAS) III questionnaire. The Mediterranean Diet Quality Index for children and adolescents (KIDMED test) was used to assess the adherence to the Mediterranean diet. The empirical investigation was based on bivariate analysis following chi-square tests and multivariate approaches employing Generalized Ridge Regression models and Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition techniques. ResultsA very low percentage of 9.1% of the adolescents had optimal adherence to the Mediterranean diet, while 57.9% and 33% had moderate and low adherence, respectively. Boys, younger adolescents, adolescents from two parents' families, with higher maternal education and socioeconomic status had higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Additionally, healthier lifestyle with more studying, efficient night sleep, frequent physical activity, going out, and having hobbies were positively associated with adherence to the Mediterranean diet. On the contrary, more screen viewing was related negatively. ConclusionsSeveral demographic, lifestyle, and socioeconomic characteristics significantly affect adherence to the Mediterranean diet. In particular, findings showed that higher socioeconomic status and a healthier lifestyle are associated with optimal adherence. Greek adolescents move away from the traditional Mediterranean Diet.