Adolescents' attitudes about and consumption of low-fat foods: associations with sex and weight-control behaviors

J Am Diet Assoc. 2004 Feb;104(2):233-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jada.2003.09.022.

Abstract

The objective of the study was to examine adolescents' attitudes about and consumption of low-fat foods by sex and weight-control behaviors. Ninth- to 12th-grade students (n=1,083) in 20 Minnesota high schools completed mail surveys (response rate=74%) as part of baseline measurements (Fall 2001) in a randomized controlled trial (TACOS: Trying Alternative Cafeteria Options in Schools). Linear models examined attitudes and consumption of low-fat foods by sex and weight-control behaviors. Girls were more likely than boys to report positive attitudes and consumption of low-fat foods (all P<.01). Weight-control practices were associated with more positive attitudes about and higher consumption of low-fat foods. Promoting low-fat snacks to adolescents who are interested in weight control may be an effective component of nutrition intervention programs because these students have more positive attitudes about low-fat foods. Dietitians' efforts to educate adolescents about the benefits and healthfulness of low-fat foods would aid intervention programs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior*
  • Adolescent Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
  • Attitude to Health*
  • Diet, Fat-Restricted / psychology*
  • Dietary Fats / administration & dosage*
  • Feeding Behavior*
  • Female
  • Fruit
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Sex Factors
  • Vegetables

Substances

  • Dietary Fats