Comparison of two indices of diet quality with acculturation factors and demographics in Haitian Americans

Ecol Food Nutr. 2014;53(1):42-57. doi: 10.1080/03670244.2013.774674.

Abstract

This study examined associations of language preference and length of stay in the United States and diet among 132 Haitian Americans aged ≥35, born in Haiti. Two dietary indices, Healthy Eating Index (HEI) and Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), were used to assess dietary quality. Years in the United States (>15 years; B = 0.063, p = .012) and female gender (B = 5.63, p = .028) were positively associated with AHEI. Lower HEI scores were associated with speaking no English (B = -6.11, p = .026). Participants reporting an income under 20,000/yr had lower AHEI scores (B = -7.63, p = .014). Concurrent use of these indices would provide a screening tool for nutrition intervention. Public health programs targeting low-cost resources, such as community gardening, are recommended to reduce health disparities among this population.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Acculturation*
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Diet Surveys*
  • Diet* / standards
  • Emigration and Immigration*
  • Feeding Behavior*
  • Female
  • Florida
  • Haiti / ethnology
  • Humans
  • Income*
  • Language*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nutrition Assessment
  • Poverty
  • Surveys and Questionnaires