Date Approved

2011

Degree Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department or School

Health Sciences

Committee Member

Judi Brooks, PhD, RD, Chair

Committee Member

Cynthia Norris, RN, CDE

Abstract

Whole grains play a cost-effective role in the treatment and prevention of type 2 diabetes, yet consumption remains well below recommendations. This pilot study showed that nonfamilial environmental factors have a strong influence on whole grain consumption among type 2 diabetics of German descent. Dietary records and grain questionnaires were used to probe subjects’ knowledge of the benefits of whole grains, reasons for grain preferences, and actual consumption. For this population (n=18), mean whole grain consumption ( = 48±30 g/d = 3±2 servings/d) was much higher than the national average (μ ≤ 1 serving/d). Misunderstanding of labels negatively influenced whole grain consumption (z =1.69, P=0.09) while nutrition education showed a positive influence (z=1.4, P=0.14). This study provides preliminary evidence that the message about the benefits of whole grains will become more effective when a component on correct product identification is included in standard nutrition education.

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