Dietary diversity and physical activity associations with lipid indices among Beijingese: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To examine the association of dietary diversity and physical activity with lipidrelated indices in a Beijing population.

METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN

This cross-sectional study included 21,472 participants (72.3% men) aged 16 to 78 years. Data were obtained through a physical examination that included anthropometric measurements, biochemical tests, and questionnaires. The dietary diversity score (0-8) was calculated according to the baseline consumption frequencies of eight food groups (cereals, fruits, vegetables, meat, eggs, fish, dairy, and legumes). Physical activity level was classified as low, moderate, or high according to International Physical Activity Questionnaire scoring protocol. Abnormalities in lipid-related indices were assessed using the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines.

RESULTS

Compared with individuals with poor dietary diversity (score 0-5), higher dietary diversity was associated with lower risk of abnormal levels of triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Dairy intake was associated with a lower risk of having a high triglyceride-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio after adjusting for potential covariates. Participants with the lowest risk of abnormal lipid profiles were those who had high levels of physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary diversity and physical activity level were associated with lipid-related indices. Therefore, to maintain healthy lipid profiles in the general population, improving dietary diversity and physical activity is essential.