Dietary Intake and Obesity among Filipino Americans in New Jersey

J Environ Public Health. 2018 Sep 16:2018:6719861. doi: 10.1155/2018/6719861. eCollection 2018.

Abstract

The prevalence of obesity is a public concern and is linked to chronic diseases. Filipino Americans have a high prevalence rate of hypertension and diabetes. This study investigated the dietary intake of first-generation Filipino Americans (n=210). In addition, it provides a comparison of the obesity rates using the International guideline and the WHO Asian recommendation. The dietary intake included caloric, carbohydrate, and fat intake and was determined using the Block Brief Food Frequency Questionnaire. The anthropometric measurements included actual height, weight, and waist measurements. The body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were categorized using the International guideline and the WHO Asian recommendation to determine obesity. The caloric and carbohydrate intake were normal; however, fat intake was increased. The BMI and waist circumference showed substantial difference when using the International and Asian guidelines to determine obesity. The results highlight the increased health risks of Filipino American immigrants including a high dietary fat intake and an increased obesity rate.

MeSH terms

  • Body Mass Index*
  • Diet*
  • Dietary Carbohydrates / analysis
  • Dietary Fats / analysis
  • Eating*
  • Energy Intake
  • New Jersey / epidemiology
  • Obesity / epidemiology*
  • Obesity / etiology
  • Philippines / ethnology
  • Prevalence
  • Waist Circumference*

Substances

  • Dietary Carbohydrates
  • Dietary Fats