Eating a low-fat diet : differences between normal weight and overweight Maltese women

Abstract

The main objective of this research was to explore differences in Theory of Planned Behaviour variables and habit strength as applied to eating a low-fat diet, between overweight and normal weight Maltese women. The convenience sample used consisted of 119 females between 30 and 65 years of age. Respondents belonged to two Body Mass Index categories; normal weight (n = 59) and overweight (n = 60). Respondents, recruited from the Mosta Health centre, completed a questionnaire adapted from standardised tests of Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and Self Reported Habit Index (SRHI). Results showed that there are significant differences between the 2 groups in subjective norms and perceived behavioural control. Findings revealed that the sample have a high intention, a positive attitude and moderate habit strength for eating a low-fat diet. Implications for low-fat diet interventions and health campaigns are discussed as well as suggestions for future research.