Socioeconomic, Behavioral, and Anthropometric Determinants of Mediterranean Diet Quality Among Turkish Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose: Adolescence represents a critical period for establishing lifelong healthy dietary behaviors; however, adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) during this stage remains suboptimal and is affected by various factors. This study aimed to evaluate adherence to MedDiet in Turkish adolescents and investigate its associations with socioeconomic status, eating habits, and anthropometric measurements. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted involving 273 high school students (mean age 15.5 ± 1.1 years). Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire that encompassed sections on general information, eating habits, and the Mediterranean Diet Quality Index (KIDMED). Anthropometric data were also measured by the researchers. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 23.0, with significance set at p