Factors Influencing the Dietary Sodium Consumption Behavior of the Population in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province
Keywords:
Behavior, Food consumption, Sodium-rich foodsAbstract
This cross-sectional survey aimed to investigate (1) key, supplementary, and facilitating factors related to sodium consumption behavior and (2) the factors affecting sodium consumption behavior among the population of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The study included a sample of 4,126 participants, selected through multi-stage sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire consisting of four parts: leading factors, facilitating or supporting factors, additional factors, and behavior in consuming foods containing sodium. with a Cronbach's alpha reliability score of 0.81. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, odds ratios, and multiple logistic regression.
The findings revealed that perceptions of benefits (50.90%) and barriers (50.97%) were generally high, while self-efficacy regarding sodium reduction was low (50.92%). Access to low-sodium foods and products was limited (58.41%), but social support for reducing sodium intake was high (50.53%). Overall, a high proportion of the population exhibited behaviors associated with consuming sodium-rich foods (55.45%). After controlling for variables, factors influencing sodium consumption behavior included age, marital status, occupation, income adequacy, education level, home cooking practices, the presence of chronic diseases, perceptions of benefits and barriers, self-efficacy, and social support.
The results suggest that the Ministry of Public Health should enhance public awareness of sodium consumption and strengthen community networks to support efforts in reducing sodium intake.
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