Sources of Food Affect Dietary Adequacy of Inuit Women of Childbearing Age in Arctic Canada

Authors

  • Sara E Schaefer Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, NC
  • Eva Erber Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, NC
  • Janel P Trzaskos Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, NC
  • Cindy Roache Department of Health and Social Services, Government of Nunavut, Nunavut
  • Geraldine Osborne Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton
  • Sangita Sharma Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3329/jhpn.v29i5.8899

Keywords:

Arctic, Childbearing age, Cross-sectional studies, Diet, Dietary adequacy, Food consumption, Inuit, Maternal nutrition, Nutritional status, Canada

Abstract

Dietary transition in the Arctic is associated with decreased quality of diet, which is of particular concern for women of childbearing age due to the potential impact of maternal nutrition status on the next generation. The study assessed dietary intake and adequacy among Inuit women of childbearing age living in three communities in Nunavut, Canada. A culturally-appropriate quantitative food-frequency questionnaire was administered to 106 Inuit women aged 19-44 years. Sources of key foods, energy and nutrient intakes were determined; dietary adequacy was determined by comparing nutrient intakes with recommendations. The prevalence of overweight/obesity was >70%, and many consumed inadequate dietary fibre, folate, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin A, D, E, and K. Non-nutrient-dense foods were primary sources of fat, carbohydrate and sugar intakes and contributed >30% of energy. Traditional foods accounted for 21% of energy and >50% of protein and iron intakes. Strategies to improve weight status and nutrient intake are needed among Inuit women in this important life stage.

Key words: Arctic; Childbearing age; Cross-sectional studies; Diet; Dietary adequacy; Food consumption; Inuit; Maternal nutrition; Nutritional status; Canada

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jhpn.v29i5.8899

JHPN 2011; 29(5): 454-464

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How to Cite

Schaefer, S. E., Erber, E., Trzaskos, J. P., Roache, C., Osborne, G., & Sharma, S. (2011). Sources of Food Affect Dietary Adequacy of Inuit Women of Childbearing Age in Arctic Canada. Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition, 29(5), 454–464. https://doi.org/10.3329/jhpn.v29i5.8899

Issue

Vol. 29 No. 5 (2011)

Section

Original Papers