Dietary patterns and their association with lifestyle factors in Lithuanian adult population

The aim of this study was to determine the association between dietary patterns and others lifestyle factors. In 1998–2004, four cross-sectional surveys were carried out within the FINBALT HEALTH MONITOR project. For every survey, a random sample of 3000 Lithuanians, aged 20–64 years, was taken from the National Population Register. The response rates varied from 61.7% to 74.4%. The study material was collected by mailed questionnaires. The 20 food groups were included into food frequency questionnaire. Factor analysis was employed in order to reduce the number of food items. Four main factors were identified: “Light food,” “Sweets,” “Heavy food,” and “Cereals.” They accounted for 46% of total variance in food intake in men and women. The associations between dietary patterns and lifestyle factors were examined by applying logistic regression analysis. Nonsmokers, physical active people, wine drinkers, and men consuming beer were more likely to follow the “Light food” pattern (consumption of fresh vegetables, fruits, chicken, and fish). People having positive values of the “Cereals” pattern smoked and drank alcohol less often and were more physical active than those with negative values of the factor. “Heavy food” factor was associated with daily smoking and drinking of strong alcohol in men and drinking of beer in women. The consumers of strong alcohol and people less physically active in leisure time were more likely to follow “Sweets” pattern.
Conclusions. Nutrition habits were related to lifestyle factors. Men and women who followed the “Cereals” pattern have the healthiest lifestyle.