An Analysis of the Typical Diet of Selected Indian/ Pakistani Adult Muslims in North America

Abstract

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5915/18-3_4-12805

This study documents the total calories, fiber and sodium content of food consumed by 12 participants in five states. Participants recorded the actual size of the servings for each meal consumed for a week. Incentives were offered for participating in the survey. Total calories, fiber and sodium content of food items were calculated from the recipes provided by the participants. The results of limited survey indicates a radical departure from the traditional diet and also incredibly huge portions were being consumed. Sixty-five percent of those surveyed were eating much more than the recommended intake of 2500 calories a day. But, the most astounding statistic to come from the survey shows that the sodium intake is 2400-6900 mg. Diet was generally low in fiber. More red meat is consumed than fish. Vegetables were generally over cooked. Traditional meals of boiled rice, meat dish with/without vegetables and homemade bread was only served by 60% and that, too, was usually for supper or evening meal. At least one meal was bought from the ubiquitous fast-food establishment offering such American cuisine as hamburger, fried chicken, donuts, pizza, hot dogs, pancakes and even Tex-Mex tacos.