A Community-Based Investigation into the Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Nutritional Health Outcomes Among Liberian Populations in the Context of Emerging Dietary Challenges

Abstract

Background: Liberia is experiencing profound dietary changes characterized by urbanization, economic transformation, and the spread of consumption of processed foods. At the same time, alcohol drinking continues to be common among communities, calling for its effects on public health to be examined. This research examines the interconnection between consumption of alcohol and nutritional health outcomes in Liberia amidst changing dietary patterns. Methods: A six-month cross-sectional community-based study (September 2024 to February 2025) was carried out in urban and rural counties of Liberia. Stratified random sampling was employed to recruit 3,453 adult participants. Structured questionnaires were used to measure socio-demographics, alcohol consumption, dietary behavior, and health outcomes. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, employing descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression models. Results: Alcohol drinking was reported by 62.8% of participants. High-frequency drinkers (≥3 times/week) were more likely to miss meals (73.1%), have low fruit and vegetable consumption (66.9%), and consume processed foods (58.3%). Nutritional signs like weakness (41.3%) and unintended weight loss (36.7%) were more prevalent in regular drinkers. Logistic Liberia is experiencing profound dietary changes characterized by urbanization, economic change, and the spread of processed food eating. At the same time, alcohol use continues to be common among communities, and concern is raised regarding its effect on public health. This research examines the association between alcohol use and nutritional health outcomes in Liberia during changing dietary trends.regression indicated that excessive alcohol use independently predicted symptoms of undernutrition (AOR = 2.34; 95% CI: 1.87–2.91, p < 0.001). Moreover, 64.1% of the respondents reported a decrease in community dietary quality over the last five years. Conclusion: Alcohol use is strongly linked with negative nutritional health status among Liberian communities. The findings highlight the pressing need for holistic health interventions on alcohol reduction, nutrition education, and food access enhancement.