A pilot study to investigate energy intake and food frequency among middle aged and elderly people in Mauritius

Abstract

Middle age is an important period of life whereby unhealthy eating habits may develop. In addition, during old age, certain transitions such as retirement may impact on eating habits and health. This study was undertaken to identify and characterize dietary patterns in the middle aged and elderly people and to assess different factors influencing energy intake. A total of 500 participants aged between 35-65 years old completed a self-reported questionnaire investigating the eating habits, Physical Activity Level (PAL), Nutrition Knowledge (NK) and BMI. A three 24-hour dietary recalls over three weeks were used to estimate energy intake (EI) of the participants. Statistical tests performed revealed that the mean energy intake was 1919.8 kcal which was lower than the recommended daily allowance. The mean BMI was 24.6 Kg/m 2 . Factors such as gender, snacking frequency and nutrition knowledge were found to influence the EI of the participants (p < 0.05). As far as eating habits are concerned, snacks rich in fat and sugar, sweetened beverages, carbohydrates and dairy products were the most consumed food items. Healthy food items such as dairy products were more frequently consumed by the middle and higher socio economic groups as compared to the low income earners. Based on the results of this study, it is not advisable to recommend an increase in energy intake among the middle aged and elderly Mauritians. However, basic nutrition knowledge should be imparted to middle aged and elderly people and an increase in physical activity level can be recommended.

Dietary patterns, body mass index, physical activity level and energy intake among the female elderly population in Mauritius

“…A score of 1 was assigned for a right answer and a score of 0 for a wrong answer and "don't know". 14 Section IV: Anthropometric measurements Physical measurements, including weight and height were obtained using the same tools to reduce the possibility of errors. A measuring tape and ruler was used to measure the height and the participant stood bare foot with the head horizontal against the wall.…”

“…However, this alone is insufficient to account for the socioeconomic inequalities in obesity. 14 There is an interrelationship between physical exercise and energy intake because physical activity has the capacity to alter energy expenditure, and when done repeatedly, leads to either weight loss or the requirement to increase energy intake. 11 A study showed that there is insufficient data to support the recommendation that physical activity may help to mitigate the decline in appetite and energy intake that happens as people age 15 .…”

“…A study found that participants who consumed less fish and more unhealthy fats, potatoes, fried foods, pasta and beer had a lower education level. 14 Therefore, understanding an older person's dietary patterns and energy intake may aid in the development of programmes to enhance nutrition and weight management. 12 Nutrition is crucial in preventing NCDs, thus, must be closely monitored.…”

“…In Mauritius, there is a scarcity of data on the daily energy intake of elderly people. 14 Thus, the aim of this study is to conduct a survey to assess the factors influencing the energy intake of the Mauritian female elderly population aged 60 and above.…”

Is Soft Drink Consumption Linked to Higher Body Mass Index and Energy Intake Among Adults in Mauritius?

“…15 Recent studies have focused on issues such as BMI , PAL , energy intake, nutrition intervention programs and different target population. 16,17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28 However, no study has been conducted to evaluate the influence of SD consumption on BMI and energy intake among adults.…”