No abstract

Height, weight and triceps skinfold thickness of children aged 5 years and under were measured in a semi-longitudinal study of 50 Chinese families in London. Heights and weights of their mothers were also measured once. The children were taller and heavier than Chinese children in Hong Kong, but height-forage, when expressed as a percentage of the UK median value, declined after two years of age. The pattern of growth of triceps skinfold did not conform to the UK standards.

During the months of April and May (autumn season in the Southern hemisphere) 1985, a 3-day 24-hour dietary recall was collected from 255 female and 246 male third form students (12-14 years old) from secondary schools of an urban region in the South Island of New Zealand. Energy and macronutrient intake information was derived from this recall data.The median intake of energy for girls was 7.5 MJ and boys 10.1 MJ. Although these intakes were only 83% and 92% of the daily recommended energy levels for girls and boys respectively, the anthropometric measurements taken did not indicate that they were underweight. Their protein intake was more than adequate; the median intake value was 55g for girls and 74g for boys. Sixty-five percent of protein source was of animal origin and this also largely accounted for the high intake of fat (79g for girls and 104g for boys) and in particular saturated fat (37g for girls and 49g for boys). Intake of complex carbohydrates and dietary fibre (17g for girls and 23g for boys) was low but sucrose intake (50g for girls and 66g for boys) was relatively high. Sucrose was derived mainly from common white cane sugar and manufactured foods. The cholesterol intake was moderately high with about 25% of girls and 40% of boys having an intake greater than 300mg per day. The main dietary sources of cholesterol came from the meat group as well as milk and dairy products, but not eggs.

The dietary practices of Chinese families in London are described, and related to their conceptualisation of foods. The pattern is varied and nutritionally excellent. There is some cautious incorporation of English foods.