Date Approved
2011
Degree Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department or School
Health Sciences
Committee Member
Rubina S. Haque, PhD, RD
Committee Member
Alice Jo Rainville, PhD, RD, CHE, SNS
Committee Member
Mary Anne Drake-Brown, PhD, RD
Abstract
Background: There are limited data available on the fruit and vegetable consumption of Caribbean immigrants in the United States.
Purpose: To assess changes in intakes of fruits and vegetables in Caribbean immigrants while assessing knowledge of the recommended servings and barriers to intake.
Method: A cross sectional Internet questionnaire was conducted for Caribbean-born members of the social network website Cariblifecentral.com. Data were analyzed using descriptive frequencies, Pearson’s chi-square, and the Student’s t-test.
Results: Of 113 respondents, 37 reported consuming less vegetables since emigrating (p<0.10) while 29 reported eating more. However, 10.8% of respondents did not know the recommended servings for vegetables. Access to fresh produce was no barrier to consumption.
Conclusions: As this population continues to grow, it becomes necessary to tailor nutrition and disease prevention information and provide education about the benefits of consuming a balanced diet and risks associated with inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables.
Recommended Citation
Martin-Ayoade, Claudia, "Factors associated with fruit and vegetable consumption among Caribbean immigrants in the United States" (2011). Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations. 365.
https://commons.emich.edu/theses/365