Enhancing Mediterranean Diet Adherence: Insights from Sharjah, UAE
The study explores the adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MD) in Sharjah, UAE, a region typically disconnected from Mediterranean culinary traditions. By surveying adults using a web-based questionnaire, researchers identified the key factors that influence diet adherence. Despite the well-documented health benefits of the MD, which include reducing chronic disease risks and promoting longevity, adherence levels were only moderate among participants, highlighting the challenges of dietary acculturation.
Key predictors of higher adherence were physical activity, accurate nutrition information from dietitians, and engagement with health content on social media. Conversely, being a smoker and lacking familiarity with the MD were linked to lower adherence levels. These findings suggest that personalized dietary guidance and robust public health campaigns could significantly enhance MD adoption in non-traditional regions, benefiting public health and individual wellness.
The study also emphasized the role of local dietitians and social media in promoting healthier eating habits. As these platforms continue to influence daily choices, their potential to guide dietary improvements offers a modern approach to boosting MD adherence, showcasing the intersection of technology, culture, and nutrition in global health strategies.
