Dietary Patterns And Nutrient Intake Of Asian/Indian American Teenagers In Kansas City

Abstract

This study was conducted in the Kansas City metropolitan area (1) to investigate food habits and dietary intakes of 25 female and 25 male Asian/Indian American adolescents; (2) to determine if food consumption patterns tended to be influenced by the cultural heritage of the Indian-born parents, and/or peers from different ethnic backgrounds; and (3) to ascertain if energy and nutrient intakes of these adolescents revealed problem areas similar to those reported for other American adolescents. Data obtained from a demographic check sheet provided socioeconomic information used to describe the sample. The Missouri Nutrition Survey was utilized for collection of data pertaining to Kcal (energy) and nutrient intake. Adequacy of the diet was evaluated through comparison with the 1980 Recommended Dietary Allowances. Intake of Kcal (energy) or a nutrient of less than 67% of the RDA was judged to be inadequate. Significant differences were found between girls and boys with respect to educational level attained. The boys were more highly educated. Frequency of consumption of 15 typically Asian/Indian foods was identified as "intensive" usage (eaten on a daily or weekly basis) and "less intensive" usage (eaten on a monthly or yearly basis). Chapati, dhal, aloo masala, and lemon pickle were used intensively by 60% or more of both girls and boys. Evaluation of dietary intake showed the most notable inadequacies for females were for iron by 24%, calcium by 16%, and Kcal (energy) by 16%. A less than adequate intake for males was shown for iron by 24%. All female and male subjects had intakes of vitamin C in excess of 100% of the RDA. All of the females and 88% of the males had vitamin A intakes in excess of 100% of the RDA. Food habits and food choices of teenagers in this investigation tended to reflect a "mix" of several factors: contact with the mainstream of American society and accompanying lifestyles, the influence of the cultural heritage of the Indian-born parents, and interaction with peers. Dietary inadequacies were similar, in some instances, to those reported in earlier studies.