An anthropological-cultural analysis of nutritional barriers and social health: a mixed-methods study across generations of urban households in Iran
Social Determinants of Health,
Vol. 11 (2025),
1 Dey 2025
,
Page 1-8
Abstract
Background: Healthy nutrition and social health are key components of sustainable community development. However, cultural and economic barriers, along with generational differences, can significantly affect dietary patterns and levels of social health in urban Iranian households. This study aimed to provide an anthropological-cultural analysis of nutritional barriers and their relationship with social health across different generations.
Methods: This mixed-method study included both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative phase involved a survey of 400 individuals from urban households representing three age groups (youth, middle-aged, and elderly). The qualitative phase included semi-structured interviews with 20 participants. The number of interviewees was determined based on the principle of data saturation, whereby new interviews no longer produced additional themes or insights. Saturation was reached after approximately 17 interviews, and three further interviews were conducted to confirm this point. Participants were selected purposefully to ensure diversity in age, gender, and socio-economic background. Data were analysed using regression analysis in the quantitative phase and thematic analysis in the qualitative phase.
Results: The findings showed that cultural barriers (β = -0.42, p < 0.001) and economic barriers (β =-0.38, p=0.004) had significant negative effects on social health. In addition, the generational variable was positively associated with social health (β = 0.21, p = 0.026). The qualitative analysis supported these results, indicating that older generations maintained stronger adherence to traditional dietary patterns and family interactions, whereas younger generations demonstrated a tendency toward fast food consumption and individualistic lifestyles.
Conclusion: The results highlight the need for urban health policies to focus on nutrition education, revitalization of family-oriented food culture, and reduction of cultural and economic barriers to healthy eating. Considering generational differences is essential in designing effective interventions.
- Age Groups
- Anthropology
- Communication Barriers
- Culture
- Diet, Healthy
- Nutritional Status
- Social Health
How to Cite
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