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Ethnic differences in micronutrient intake in a rural biethnic population
T K Lopez1, J A Marshall, S M Shetterly
1Department of Preventive Medicine and Biometrics, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver 80262, USA.
American Journal of Preventive Medicine
|September 1, 1995
Summary
Hispanic and non-Hispanic white (NHW) adults in rural Colorado show differing micronutrient intake. NHWs consumed more calories and key nutrients; Hispanic diets could improve with more fruits, vegetables, and calcium.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional epidemiology
- Public health nutrition
- Dietary assessment
Background:
- Micronutrient intake disparities exist across socioeconomic status (SES) and ethnic groups.
- Understanding these differences is crucial for targeted public health interventions.
- Rural populations may face unique dietary challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare micronutrient intake between Hispanic and non-Hispanic white (NHW) adults in rural southern Colorado.
- To investigate the influence of SES and ethnicity on dietary patterns.
- To identify specific dietary improvements for at-risk populations.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional dietary assessment using 24-hour recalls.
- Inclusion of 552 Hispanic and 754 NHW adults aged 30-74 years.
- Statistical adjustments for age, gender, ethnicity, and calorie intake.
Main Results:
- NHW adults reported higher mean calorie intake than Hispanic adults.
- NHW adults exhibited significantly greater intakes of calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, riboflavin, niacin, zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
- No significant micronutrient trends were associated with SES measures after adjustments.
Conclusions:
- Hispanic adults in this rural Colorado population may benefit from increased consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich foods.
- Ethnic and gender factors significantly influence micronutrient intake.
- Dietary quality disparities warrant public health attention in rural settings.