Acculturation and dietary intake pattern among Jamaican immigrants in the US

Abstract

Information on dietary intakes of Jamaican immigrants in the United States is sparse. Understanding factors that influence diet is important since diet is associated with chronic diseases. This study examined the association between acculturation, socio-cultural factors, and dietary pattern among Jamaican immigrants in Florida. Jamaican persons 25–64 years who resided in two South Florida counties were recruited for participation. A health questionnaire that assessed acculturation, dietary pattern, and risk factors for cardiovascular disease was administered to participants. Generalized Estimating Equations were used to determine associations. Acculturation score was not significantly associated with dietary intake pattern (β = − 0.02 p = 0.07). Age at migration was positively associated with traditional dietary pattern (β = 0.02 p < 0.01). Persons with 12 or fewer years of education (β = − 0.55 p < 0.001), divorced (β = − 0.26 p = 0.001), or engaged in less physical activity (β = − 0.07 p = 0.01) were more likely to adhere to a traditional diet. Although acculturation was not a statistically significant predictor of dietary intake, findings show the role of demographic and lifestyle characteristics in understanding factors associated with dietary patterns among Jamaicans. Findings point to the need to measure traditional dietary intakes among Jamaicans and other immigrant groups. Accurate assessment of disease risk among immigrant groups will lead to more accurate diet-disease risk assessment and development of effective intervention programs.

Understanding the determinants of sweet taste liking in the African and East Asian ancestry groups in the U.S.–A study protocol

“…However, few studies have documented dietary changes after migrating to the U.S. [ 46 – 51 ], or how these changes may affect taste liking [ 52 ]. Immigrants may retain their sweet liking developed in their home countries, as has been observed with other dietary habits [ 53 – 55 ]. Therefore, comparing immigrants vs. U.S.-born individuals of similar ancestry backgrounds may help inform whether environmental differences during early childhood affect sweet-liking status.…”

Association of dietary intake and dietary habits with risk of cardiovascular disease among immigrant Pakistanis living in the Netherlands

“…Migration and acculturation are associated with risks of chronic disease patterns. 1,2 Most epidemiological studies have shown that South Asians living in western countries have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) as compared to local population. 2,3 Pakistan is one of the largest countries in South Asia, with a population of 180 million.…”

Understanding the Determinants of Sweet Liking in the African and East Asian Ancestry Groups in the U.S. – A Study Protocol

“…However, few studies have documented dietary changes after migrating to the U.S. [30][31][32][33][34][35] , or how these changes may affect taste liking 36 . Immigrants may retain their sweet liking developed in their home countries, as has been observed with other dietary habits [37][38][39] . Therefore, comparing immigrants vs. U.S.-born individuals of similar ancestry backgrounds may help inform whether environmental differences during early childhood affect sweet-liking status.…”