Examining Canadians’ Food Choices Related To Osteoporosis And Calcium Content

Date
2011-04-02
Authors
McLeod, Katherine M
Johnson, Shanthi
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Regina Graduate Students' Association
Abstract

In Canada approximately 1 in 4 women and 1 in 8 men over 50 years of age suffer from osteoporosis. Adequate calcium intake plays a fundamental role in the prevention and management of osteoporosis; however, the majority of older adults have intakes far below recommended amounts. This study determined the relationship between choosing foods because of concern about osteoporosis and choosing foods because of calcium content. Analysis was based on weighted data from 16,325 men and women over 50 years of age from the Canadian Community Health Survey (2007-2008). Chi-square and gender-stratified logistic regression analysis determined the association between gender, age, and food choices. Regardless of age group, women were more likely to choose foods because of calcium content and osteoporosis concern than men (p < 0.01). Controlling for education, income, marital status, and age, choosing foods because of osteoporosis concern was a significant predictor of choosing food based on calcium content for men (OR = 12.08, 95%CI: 11.94-12.23; p = <0.01) and women (OR = 10.99, 95%CI: 10.86-11.08; p = <0.01). These results have practice implications in that older adults who are aware of osteoporosis are likely to consume calcium and thus prevent or manage the disease.

Description
Keywords
Osteoporosis, Nutrition, Older adults
Citation