Factors associated with sugar-sweetened beverage and water consumption among adults in rural Baja California

INTRODUCTION: This study explored factors associated with sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) and water consumption among adults in a small community in rural Mexico. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional survey using door-to-door sampling in an unincorporated community. Measures included self-reported consumption of beverages, personal preference, behavioral, and social environmental factors. Hierarchical multivariate linear regression models tested associations between social environmental factors and beverage consumption. RESULTS: = 89) reported consuming high amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages, averaging 29.9 oz (884.2 mL) per day. Daily water intake was approximately 33.9 oz (1002.5 mL) per day. Personal preference (β = 1.58; 95% CI 1.20, 2.04), behavioral (β = 1.38; 95% CI 1.10, 1.74), and social environmental factors (β = 1.38; 95% CI 1.02, 1.86) were associated with greater daily consumption of SSBs. CONCLUSIONS: Adults reported consuming high amounts of SSBs and low amounts of water. These behaviors correlated with personal preference, behavioral, and social environmental factors. A multidimensional approach that considers personal, behavioral, and social environmental factors could reduce SSB consumption and improve health outcomes in rural Mexican communities.