| Description |
The nation of Tonga, like other Pacific Islander nations, has experienced a dramatic rise in obesity rates in the last 30 years as a result of economic modernization. Along with this increase, obesity-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes have become more prevalent. To date, there are no published studies on the dietary intake of Tongans. The aim of this study was to provide preliminary data on the dietary intake of Tongans living in the U.S. A sample of 32 overweight or obese adult men and women was recruited from a small Tongan community in Utah. A single 24-hour recall was collected for each participant through a telephone interview. The ESHA Food Processor nutrient database program was used for nutrient analysis. The average energy intake was 2139 calories, the average carbohydrate intake was 264g or 55% of total calories, the average protein intake was 88g, the average total fat intake was 71 g or 30% of total calories, the average saturated fat intake was 27g or 11% of total calories, and the average cholesterol intake was 335mg. Foods that were the highest sources of energy, carbohydrate, total fat, and protein included pizza, fast food, beef, chicken, and white bread. These data illustrate the need for more effective Nutrition; intervention and greater emphasis on physical activity in the Tongan community. |
