A Survey of Relationship between Dietary Diversity Score and Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

Background: Dietary intake is increasingly recognized as a pivotal factor in the etiology of metabolic syndrome. A substantial body of evidence suggests a significant correlation between dietary quality indices—such as the Dietary Diversity Score (DDS)—and the occurrence of metabolic syndrome. Objective: This study aims to rigorously evaluate the impact of the Dietary Diversity Score and demographic variables on the manifestation of metabolic syndrome. Materials and Methods: This case-control study included 175 individuals diagnosed with metabolic syndrome and an equal number of age-matched healthy controls (comprising both genders), aged between 20 and 65 years. Participants were recruited from various laboratories and the general population in Chalous, northern Iran. Dietary intake data were meticulously collected using a comprehensive Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Additionally, dietary quality indices, specifically the Dietary Diversity Score (DDS), were assessed using standardized methodologies. Results: A difference in the likelihood of metabolic syndrome morbidity was observed when comparing the highest quartile (Quartile 4) of Dietary Diversity Score to the lowest (Quartile 1). However, after adjusting for confounding variables—including age, sex, dietary energy intake, education, occupation, and marital status—this difference did not reach statistical significance. No substantial variations were observed in the odds ratios across quartiles or models (P-trend ≥ 0.05) for the Dietary Diversity Score. Conclusion: No significant associations were found between the Dietary Diversity Score and the occurrence of metabolic syndrome.