Gender differences in dietary quality, obesity rate and other lifestyle variables of Korean Americans living in western parts of USA

Abstract

Gender differences in dietary quality, obesity rate and other lifestyle variables were studied in Korean American adults living in western parts of USA. The structured survey forms and food frequency questionnaire were used to assess nutrient intakes and other lifestyle variables. There was a significant gender difference in obesity rates determined by body mass index(BMI) and relative body weight(RBW). In spite of higher obesity rates, males were more satisfied with their body weights than females’. Futhermore, their physical activity level was significantly higher than females. Most nutrient intakes were higher in males but vitamin A, vitamin C and folate intakes were significantly higher in females. Except for Ca, nutrient adequacy ratios(NAR) of most nutrients studied were significantly higher in females than in males. Index of nutritional qualities(INQ) of Ca, Zn, and cholesterol were not desirable in both genders. Height in male was positively associated with most nutrient intakes except for vitamin A and vitamin C but weight was negatively associated with most nutrients except for energy, Zn and cholesterol. Contrastingly, weight and obesity rates were positively associated with more nutrient intakes in females. Thus, there were gender differences in association with weight, and nutrient intake patterns. Different approach for nutrition education between genders should be considered to solve diet related health problems of Korean Americans in the community.