Food preferences and health effects of poor and non-poor individuals

Aim: Adequate and balanced nutrition is of critical importance for human life and especially for preventing the development of chronic diseases. One of the biggest obstacles to adequate and balanced nutrition is financial reasons. Therefore, this study aims to determine the food preferences and health effects of poor and non-poor individuals. Methods: This study is a comparative descriptive research and focuses on two family health centers in Diyarbakır: one from the Kayapınar region, which has a high socioeconomic status, and another from the Bağlar region, which has a low socioeconomic status. A total of 250 individuals (aged 40-64) were selected, with 125 individuals from the family health center in the Kayapınar region and 125 individuals from the family health center in the Bağlar region. The data collection involved the use of a Socio-Demographic Characteristics Information Form, Anthropometric Measurement and Chronic Disease Information Form, and Food Consumption Frequency Form. The data were collected through face-to-face interviews. Results: When examining the demographic characteristics of low-income and non-low-income individuals, a statistically significant difference was found between the groups regarding age, education, social security, and monthly income (p<0.05). The frequency of food consumption among the participants was also compared in the study. When comparing the weekly consumption frequencies of all food groups between low-income and non-low-income individuals, a statistically significant difference was identified between the groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: The education level of individuals affects the amount of income. Income level also plays an essential role in nutritional preferences. As the socioeconomic level of individuals increases, their access to food increases, providing a more balanced and healthy diet. Keywords: Nutrition, Health, Poverty