Dietary Adequacy among Multi-Ethnic Urban Youth in Edmonton: Findings from the Wellness and Health in Youth – Aboriginal and All Communities in Transition NOW (WHY ACT NOW) Project

Abstract

Objective The development of obesity and chronic diseases in adulthood often results from a childhood pattern of dietary excesses. This study aimed to identify dietary inadequacies and excesses of multiethnic youth in Edmonton. Methods A cross-sectional survey of a convenience sample of 473 multiethnic youth between 11 and 18 years was conducted in 12 schools in Edmonton between October 2013 and March 2014. Data were analyzed to determine for each participant mean daily energy and nutrient intakes, dietary adequacy, and nutrient densities. Participants were divided by self-identified ethnicity (Indigenous, European, African and Middle Eastern, and Asian). Results For all nutrients examined, the mean percentage of calories from fat was higher among European (31.7%) and Indigenous youth (31.8%) compared to African and Middle Eastern (28.3%) and Asian youth (29.0%), while Asian youth had the highest percentage of calories from protein (17.7%) compared to other ethnic groups (Indigenous = 15.5%; African & Middle Eastern = 16.5%; European = 16.2%). The majority of youth fell below the recommended values for dietary fiber (83.3–92.0%), vitamins D (84.4–90.2%), and E (89.5–92.0%). More than 50% fell below the dietary reference intakes (DRIs) for vitamin A, vitamin B5, calcium, and magnesium; >30% were below the DRI for folate, zinc, and vitamins B6, and C. The diet of girls contained a greater density of fiber compared to boys (9.3 vs. 8.0 g/1000 kcal; p-value = 0.002). Conclusions Inadequate dietary intake is evident among the majority of multiethnic youth in Edmonton. There is a need to develop strategies to reduce the burden of poor nutrition status for youth.