Filipino nutrient inadequacy

Rice is commonly consumed in the Philippines; however the contribution of other foods to the diet is not well 

defined. Our aim was to determine the nutrient intake and food group intake of Philippine nuns and compare 

their intakes to the current estimated average requirements (EAR), and food-based recommendations, respec- 

tively, and assess any differences in nutrient adequacy and energy intakes between body mass index (BMI) cate- 

gories. Body weight was assessed at baseline and at nine months; three-day weighed food intakes were recorded 

once every fortnight (n=187). At baseline, the mean (SD) age and BMI of the women was: 25.0 (4.6) years and 

21.8 (17.3) kg/m2, respectively. Over the nine months, women with an underweight (n=46; <18.5>

ceptable BMI (n=132; 18.5-25 kg/m2) lost 5.0 kg (p=0.005) and 1.5 kg (p=0.047), respectively, whereas over- 

weight women maintained their weight. Irrespective of BMI, 98% of women consumed less than the adequate 

intake for calcium, and no one met the folate EAR. The intake of all food groups (e.g., rice, vegetables, fruit, 

meat, dairy) was lower than food-based recommendations.  It is evident that the nutrient density of the Philippine 

diet is poor. In order to meet nutrient requirements, it is recommended that all women increase intake of fruits, 

vegetables, fish, meat and dairy products, to reduce risk of micro-nutrient deficiencies. - abstract from 

Nutrient adequacy and food group consumption of  Filipino novices and religious sisters 

 by Jessica A Grieger PhD1, Jere D Haas PhD2, Laura E Murray-Kolb PhD3,  Penny Kris-Etherton PhD, RD1, John L Beard PhD1