Adherence of Malaysian Older Persons to the ‘‘Variety’’ Characteristic based on the Malaysian Dietary Guidelines

Abstract

Dietary variety, a key indicator of diet quality, is essential for ensuring nutrient adequacy and supporting healthy ageing. However, limited data exist on how Malaysian older adults achieve dietary variety as outlined in national guidelines. This study evaluated how well Malaysian older adults follow the “Variety” recommendations of the Malaysian Dietary Guidelines (MDG 2010/2020 and MDG-OP 2023). A cross-sectional study was conducted among 256 community-dwelling older adults (≥60 years) in Mukim Plentong, Johor Bahru. Dietary data were collected using a 7-day Diet History Questionnaire (DHQ) and analyzed using six variety indicators (V1–V6) within MY.DQI-OP, capturing between- and within-food group diversity. Descriptive statistics summarized adherence rates, and socio-demographic characteristics were assessed via structured interviews. Fewer than 10% (9.4%) of respondents consumed at least one serving from all five major food groups daily. Within-group diversity was particularly low, with only 2.7% consuming different fruits at each meal and 0.4% consuming different colored vegetables at lunch and dinner. Although 64.5% and 70.7% met frequency recommendations for dark green leafy and non-leafy vegetables, diversity remained limited. Most (69.1%) relied on a single protein source weekly. Low income, food insecurity (23%), and financial insufficiency (12.9%) emerged as likely barriers to achieving variety. Poor adherence to variety recommendations highlights risks of nutrient inadequacy and underscores the need for culturally tailored interventions to improve diet diversity among Malaysian older adults.