Hispanic women in EFNEP have low adherence with dietary guidelines regardless of acculturation level

This study evaluated the acculturation level and dietary patterns of 171 Hispanic women aged 18 to 60 years in the EFNEP program to determine whether dietary guideline recommendations were met.  The study used three assessment instrument, an acculturation scale, and a bean purchasing questionnaire.  Less than 30% of the Hispanic-dominant and only 7 percent of bicultural and English dominant women met the guidelines for fruits, vegetables, or legumes.  The study indicated that dietary quality declines with acculturation, and the diet of less acculturated Hispanic women may have been inadequate before acculturation.  Even for a traditional foods, such as beans.

Educational messages should focus on selecting beans and healthier alternative foods as part of the acculturation process.