Date of Conferral

7-28-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Shuey Shumaker

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of obesity and mental health disparities among Hispanic/Latino populations in the United States underscores the need to understand how sociocultural factors shape physical and psychological health. The purpose of this study was to examine how acculturation, diet quality, and fiber intake affect BMI and depressive symptoms over time. The study was guided by acculturation theory and the biopsychosocial model. The study used longitudinal secondary data from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) with a sample of N=8,816, including adults who completed examination visits, 1 (2008–2011) and 2 (2014–2017). Path analysis was conducted to assess direct and indirect associations between acculturation, diet quality, and fiber with BMI and depressive symptoms across time points. Findings revealed that higher acculturation at baseline was associated with increased BMI and depressive symptoms, while greater fiber intake had a possible protective role against obesity and depression. Longitudinally, acculturation at baseline was indirectly associated with higher BMI and depressive symptoms at visit 2 through lower fiber intake and increased BMI. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of how modifiable behavioral pathways, such as culture and diet, are linked to physical and mental health. Future recommendations include research evaluating culturally tailored nutrition interventions to improve health outcomes in minority populations. Findings also inform public health strategies that support mental and metabolic health in Hispanic/Latino communities, promoting health equity and advancing positive social change.

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