The Role of Religiosity in Dietary Beliefs and Behaviors among Urban African American Women

Abstract

The relationship between religiosity and health has been investigated in many studies, with most finding positive associations. However, little is known about the role of religiosity in dietary factors, particularly among African American women. We used a self-administered questionnaire to examine the association between religiosity and dietary beliefs and behaviors among African American women. Women with strong religious beliefs and behaviors reported more interest in eating more fruits and vegetables, perceived their consumption as being more important, and consumed more fruits and vegetables than women low in religious beliefs and behaviors. These findings highlight the role of both religious beliefs and behaviors as they relate to diet-related beliefs and behaviors in this population.