An Examination of the Demographic Characteristics and Dietary Intake of People Who Meet the Physical Activity Guidelines: NSW Population Health Survey Data 2007

Abstract

The purpose of this report is to examine the association between physical activity and dietary intake using self reported data from the 2007 NSW Population Health Survey. This report first investigates whether being physically active is associated with healthy dietary behaviours, and then describes the sociodemographic profile of physically active people who do not engage in healthy eating behaviours. Overall, results showed that older people, especially men, tend to do less physical activity compared to younger people, and that obese women were less likely to meet physical activity guidelines compared to healthy weight women. Those who reported a higher intake of fruits and vegetables and/or a lower consumption of soft drinks were more likely to meet the physical activity guidelines. Findings also indicate that among those meeting the physical activity guidelines, men were more likely to report a lower intake of vegetables and a higher consumption of soft drinks and takeaway foods compared to women. Among active people, young people were at a higher risk of unhealthy eating than older age groups. This study strongly supports the hypothesis that physical activity and dietary habits are correlated behaviours, which is consistent with other research findings. The gender and age differences in the association of these health behaviours suggest the value of targeting specific population groups for future interventions.