F159 - Barriers and Facilitators of a Healthy Diet in Antioquia, Colombia: Insights from Focus Groups Using the Theoretical Domains Framework
Time: 11:00 AM - 11:50 AMTopics: Social and Environmental Context and Health, Diet, Nutrition, and Eating Disorders
Poster Number: F159
Objective: To use the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to map barriers and facilitators of a healthy diet in a Colombian population (Province of Antioquia). Methods: 148 Adults (18+ years old: 73.6% women) participated in 16 focus groups across 8 of the 9 subregions of Antioquia. An inductive thematic analysis was conducted, with the TDF used for higher-order categories. Results: Regarding social influences, eating is a deeply rooted family tradition, with individuals often consuming foods common in their childhood homes. Home-cooked meals are strongly linked to a healthy diet, and women are typically the primary cooks and food providers. When a family member has a medical condition, the eating habits of the entire family often change to support that individual. Social influences are substantial, as participants strive to eat healthily but may indulge when sweet treats are offered. For environmental context and resources, participants noted that fruits and vegetables are generally accessible, and in rural areas, it is often possible to grow one’s own food, with vegetables being predominant. However, despite the availability of healthy foods, financial constraints often limit access, leading some to rely on what they can grow or afford. Regarding skills, participants recognized a variety of cooking methods, including steaming, frying, and stewing; as for behavioral regulation, they emphasized the importance of moderating fried food consumption, as most typical foods are fried. They also highlighted the need to reduce sweet treat intake. For knowledge, a healthy diet is understood to include fruits and vegetables, should be balanced, and avoid frying foods. Participants believe that a healthy diet helps prevent various diseases but stressed the importance of considering individual characteristics when choosing the best foods. The timing of meals is also recognized as important, though beliefs vary. Conclusion: Based on these findings, programs promoting healthy eating in Colombia should emphasize the importance of healthy meals as a way to care for loved ones. These programs should equip individuals with skills to manage social pressure and reinforce healthy eating as a preventive measure against chronic diseases. Lastly, it is crucial that these programs provide affordable and accessible food options to ensure widespread adoption of healthier eating practices.
Keywords: Health behavior change, Low-incomeAuthors and Affliiates
Co-Author: Carolina Úsuga, MsC, Universidad EAFITCo-Author: Jesús Alexander Palau, MsC, Universidad EAFIT
Co-Author: Isabela Cano, Universidad EAFIT
Co-Author: Carla Maldonado, Universidad EAFIT
Co-Author: Camila Duque, Universidad EAFIT
Co-Author: María del Pilar Guevara, Universidad EAFIT
Co-Author: Elizabeth Rendón, PhD, Universidad EAFIT
Co-Author: Kim Lavoie, PhD, UQAM
Co-Author: Simon Bacon, PhD, Concordia University
Co-Author: Mariantonia Lemos, PhD, Universidad EAFIT
F159 - Barriers and Facilitators of a Healthy Diet in Antioquia, Colombia: Insights from Focus Groups Using the Theoretical Domains Framework
Category
Scientific > Poster/Paper/Live Research Spotlight