DO TYPE AS EAT DIFFERENTLY - A COMPARISON OF MEN AND WOMEN

Type A behaviour has been associated with coronary heart disease, but little is known about how Type A behaviour relates to diet. As part of a cross-sectional epidemiological study in Northern Ireland, Type A b ehaviour was assessed using a validated questionnaire and diet assesse d using weighed records. Diet was described in terms of nutrient intak e, food intake and dietary pattern. The study population comprised 245 men and 306 women aged 16 to 64 years. The relation between Type A be haviour and diet was examined by calculating partial correlation coeff icients between A-type score and dietary variables, controlling for ag e and household socio-economic group. In men Type A score showed a wea k but significant association with fat and protein intake, and intake of beef, cheese, yoghurt and chips. In women, Type A score showed a we ak positive association with sugar and alcohol intake. In both men and women, Type A score was positively associated with the ''convenience' ' dietary pattern. These relationships are discussed in the context of the dominant food ideology and coronary risk. (C) 1996 Academic Press Limited