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Hard work does not result in a decrease in meal quality: the case of a Japanese farming village
H Nakatsuka1, H Satoh, R Yamamoto
1Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.
Appetite
|April 1, 1997
Summary
Japanese farmers
Area of Science:
- Agricultural science
- Nutritional science
- Public health
Background:
- Historically, Japanese farmers increased carbohydrate intake during strenuous labor.
- Post-1960s economic growth increased food availability and affordability in Japan.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if modern Japanese farmers maintain dietary nutrient balance during farming work.
- To compare meal quantity and quality between farmers and non-farmers in a rural Japanese village.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of dietary intake (quantity and quality) between farmers and villagers.
- Assessment of nutrient intake relative to energy expenditure and recommended dietary allowances.
Main Results:
- Energy and nutrient intake increased with farming work.
- Nutrient density per unit of energy remained stable.
- Relative nutrient intake compared to recommended allowances did not decrease with increased work.
Conclusions:
- The dietary quality of Japanese farmers does not decline with increased energy demands from farming.
- Increased food availability ensures balanced nutrition for farmers undertaking strenuous labor.