Assessment of dietary intake in an Inuvialuit population undergoing a rapid nutrition transition

Abstract

Inuvialuit in Arctic Canada are undergoing a rapid nutrition transition and have increased burden of diet‐related chronic disease. However, little is known about the resulting dietary inadequacies. Up to three 24‐hour dietary recalls were collected among adult Inuvialuit in a remote community in the Northwest Territories. Recall data was analyzed for energy and nutrient intake, dietary adequacy, most commonly reported foods, and top food contributors to energy and selected nutrients. Respondents were 14 men and 49 women (mean age 47 and 44 years, respectively, response rate 79%). Mean daily intake of energy was 2,777 kcal for men and 2,457 kcal for women. Levels of dietary fiber and vitamin E were lower than the recommendation in >90% of men and women. Vitamin A intake was below the recommended levels for 79% of men and 82% of women, while 79% of men and 69% of women did not meet the recommendation for folate. Majority of men (79%) and women (92%) did not meet the recommendation for calcium. Traditional foods contributed substantially to protein and iron intake. Sweetened juices/drinks were the main contributors to energy, carbohydrate and sugar intake. This study highlighted the need for a nutritional and lifestyle intervention program such as Healthy Foods North to improve dietary adequacy and reduce risk of chronic disease.Supported by ADA, Government of NWT DHSS, Public Health Agency of Canada, CPHA, and Health Canada.