To Eat or Not to Eat—A Qualitative Exploration and Typology of Restrictive Dietary Practices among Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Abstract

Favorable diets often include restrictive practices that have proven health benefits, even if initiated later in life. The aim of this qualitative study is to gain a comprehensive understanding of Restrictive Dietary Practices (RDPs) among a sample of middle-aged and older German adults (aged 59–78 years). We conducted 24 narrative in-depth interviews and analyzed the data using qualitative content analysis (Kuckartz). Following an inductive thematic approach, a typology was reconstructed comprising four typical RDP characteristics: I. The Holistically Restraining Type, II. The Dissonant-savoring Restraining Type, III. The Reactively Restraining Type, and IV. The Unintentionally Restraining Type. These types differed regarding the practical implementation of, e.g., restrictive food choice into everyday routines, barriers to do so, as well as with respect to attitudes and motives underlying RDPs. The major motives for adopting a RDP involved health, well-being, ethical, and ecological concerns. The most prominent barriers to a ‘successful’ adoption of RDPs were the enjoyment of food and the desire for spontaneity and freedom of (food) choice. Our study offers an in-depth understanding of the aspects that shape the widespread practice of dietary restriction among middle-aged and older adults. Lifeworld-related changes in RDPs and possible ‘type shiftings’ are discussed as well as the meaning and chances of RDPs for public health promotion.