An evaluation of the diet of three groups of samoan adults: Modernization and dietary adequacy

Abstract

This report presents the findings of a dietary survey on three groups of Samoan adults who have been exposed to varying degrees of modernization. The nutrient intakes of 330 Samoan adults living in American Samoa and Hawaii were estimated from a 24‐hour recall survey. Dietary adequacy was assessed against the 1980 RDA's. Energy intakes were lower, but skinfold measurements were higher for females than for males. There was no sexual differentiation for other nutrients. Nutrient intake and dietary adequacy decreased with increasing modernization; and women of child‐bearing age in Hawaii were most at risk. Increases in educational or occupational status were associated with decreased dietary adequacy. Calcium, iron, thiamin and riboflavin intakes were potential nutritional problems. Suggestions for remedies include the use of foods of low caloric density that provide the above nutrients, as well as increasing activity to bring the diet into energetic balance.