Dietary patterns of iTaukei (indigenous) Fijians: preliminary findings from a five - day dietary record in rural communities

Nakamura, Naohiro and Wainimala, Peni and Ratuyawa, Metia and Tawakedina, Fulori and Waqa, Elisabeta (2024) Dietary patterns of iTaukei (indigenous) Fijians: preliminary findings from a five - day dietary record in rural communities. Asia Pacific Journal of Public Health, 36 (1). pp. 123-126. ISSN 1010-5395

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Abstract

This article presents the preliminary findings from a five-day dietary record of 105 iTaukei (indigenous) Fijians in seven rural communities on remote islands, Fiji. Although the literature on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) has discussed the potential reasons for the NCD increase in Fiji, research has relied on secondary data on the consumption patterns of limited food items. Hence, this research is one of the first in the country to analyze detailed dietary patterns. A high body mass index rate in the case study communities is observed. We also find that carbohydrate sources dominate the diet of the participants, while the consumption of protein sources (including canned products) and vegetables/fruits is limited. In addition, the diversity of food items is limited. Meanwhile, the major carbohydrate sources are locally produced cassava, although rice and flour products are also consumed. We suggest integrating these factors into the determination of the cause of the NCD increase.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	dietary pattern, Fiji, noncommunicable diseases, nutrient, remote island
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > G Geography (General) G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GF Human ecology. Anthropogeography
Divisions:	School of Agriculture, Geography, Environment, Ocean and Natural Sciences (SAGEONS)
Depositing User:	Naohiro Nakamura
Date Deposited:	12 Feb 2024 23:17
Last Modified:	12 Feb 2024 23:17
URI:	https://repository.usp.ac.fj/id/eprint/14426

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