Overview

Abstract (English)

Given the social gradient in nutrition-related conditions in Canada, we investigated the relationships between Canadian adults’ socioeconomic characteristics and diet quality. Using the Canadian Community Health Survey 2015: Nutrition, we compared one-day mean intakes foradults aged 25-64 (n=8,109) by income quintile, education, and food insecurity status. While few differences were identified based on income quintile, post-secondary education and food security benefitted Canadians’ intake of micronutrients, fibre, fruits/vegetables, percent of energy from ultra-processed foods and/or Healthy Eating Index scores. High income/education in women was also associated with higher diet quality in most indicators analyzed. However, sodium and saturated fat intakes did not differ by socioeconomic characteristics. Our results indicate that higher socioeconomic status, particularly in women, is associated with higher diet quality. Moving forward, nutrition policy should consider the relationships between socioeconomic status and diet quality to optimize interventions and reduce the likelihood of exacerbating the nutrition disparities observed.

Abstract (French)

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