Changes in Dietary Behaviors of Greeks and Greek-Americans Living in Tarpon Springs Florida

Abstract:
The study looks at factors which influence food selection of Greeks and Greek Americans and the resulting risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Americans have six times the rate of CHD as Greeks and it can be partially attributed to differences in their diets. Do Greek-Americans who adapt to more American style diets increase their CHD risk? The literature and this study show that they do. Are Greek holidays and foods eliminated or consumed during these times protective against increased risk of CHD? The study found no relationship. What are the influences that contribute to Greek Americans introducing more American style foods into their diets when they live in the US? The study found that foods advertised on TV, recipes in popular magazines and using coupons for food purchases were strong predictors of selecting more American style foods. Greeks were not as influenced as non-Greeks by convenience or commercially prepared foods. The study compares differences in types of foods eaten between Greeks, Greek-Americans and non-Greeks. Nutritionists who want to influence healthy dietary choices may have greater success by using informative TV advertisements, enticing recipes and food coupons to influence the selection of foods that predict a lower risk of CHD.

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