Nutrient intake of first generation Gujarati Asian Indian immigrants in the U.S.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the nutrient intake of Gujarati Asian Indian immigrants in the U.S. and the influence of length of residence in the U.S. and socioeconomic status (SES) on their macronutrient intake.

METHODS

Subjects were male (n = 90) and female (n = 99) Gujarati Asian Indian immigrants over the age of 45. Each participant completed a 24-hour dietary recall. Dietary recalls were analyzed using Food Processor nutrient analysis software. Participants were classified into recent immigrants (<10 years length of residence in the U.S.) and long-term immigrants (>10 years length of residence in the U.S.) and into low, medium and high education groups, based on highest level of education achieved, to examine the influence of these variables on their macronutrient intake.

RESULTS

The macronutrient contributions to the total energy intake of these Gujarati Asian Indian immigrants were as follows: carbohydrate 57%, protein 12% and total fat 33%. The diets were low in cholesterol (<100 mg/day) and high in dietary fiber (>/=25 g/day). Reported intakes of vitamin D, calcium (women only), potassium (women only), copper and zinc were less than two-thirds of the recommendations. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in macronutrient intake were observed based on length of residence in the U.S. and SES. Regression analysis indicates age, total energy intake, length of residence in the U.S. and SES to have a significant influence on the nutrient intake of these Gujarati Asian Indian immigrants.

CONCLUSION

The nutrient intakes of these Gujarati Asian Indian immigrants indicate both inadequacies and excesses of select macro and micronutrients. These nutrient inadequacies and excesses can impact overall health and risk of chronic diseases of these individuals. Further investigation of the influence of the diets of these immigrants on their health is warranted.