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.
Recommended Citation
Erickson, Nicole, "Pilot study: Barriers to whole grain consumption among diabetics of German heritage" (2011). Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations. 306.
https://commons.emich.edu/theses/306