Adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with sustainable nutrition and environmental footprints on higher educated individuals
International Journal of Environmental Health Research, vol.34, no.10, pp.3478-3488, 2024 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 34 Issue: 10
- Publication Date: 2024
- Doi Number: 10.1080/09603123.2024.2308732
- Journal Name: International Journal of Environmental Health Research
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, PASCAL, Agricultural & Environmental Science Database, Aquatic Science & Fisheries Abstracts (ASFA), BIOSIS, CAB Abstracts, CINAHL, Educational research abstracts (ERA), EMBASE, Environment Index, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, Geobase, MEDLINE, Pollution Abstracts, Veterinary Science Database
- Page Numbers: pp.3478-3488
- Keywords: education level, Mediterranean diet, sustainability, sustainable diet
- Akdeniz University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between Med-Diet adherence with sustainable nutrition and environmental footprints in academicians. Methods: The study involved 153 academicians aged 23-64 working in a university in Turkey. Data were collected through a questionnaire including socio-demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, Mediterranean Diet Adherence Scale (MEDAS) and Sustainable and Healthy Eating Behaviours Scale (SHEBS). Carbon and water footprints were calculated. Results: All sub-scales of SHEBS were higher in individuals who adhered to Med-Diet than those who did not (p<0.05). The carbon and water footprints of individuals with high adherence to the Med-Diet were lower than those of no adherence (p<0.05). Each 1-point increase in MEDAS score was associated with a 1-point increase in SHEBS score, a 0.15 CO2 eq/kg and a 0.001 m3/year decrease in the amount of carbon and water footprint of food. Conclusion: Higher adherence to the Med-Diet was associated with higher sustainable nutrition behaviours, and lower environmental footprints.