Diet inadequacies and neurobehavioural impairment in rural highland Ecuadoreans

Date

2004

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Abstract

Objectives: To examine the adequacy of the diet and neurobehavioural performance, and the relationship between diet and neurobevaiour in residents of a highland Ecuadorian community, who grow much of their own food, and uses high levels of neurotoxic agricultural pesticides. Methods: Quantitative 24-hour recalls were conducted on at least two non-consecutive days for each household member (n=276). Adequacy of nutrient intake was assessed through comparison with FAO/WHO recommendations. Neurobehavioral tests focused on visual and motor domains. Mean age and education standardized Z-scores were calculated for each domain using data from a non-rural referent population. Results: Dietary energy was mostly from carbohydrates (74%), with relatively low intakes of fat (16%) and protein (10%). The highest probabilities of inadequacy existed for vitamin A (30- 59% in different age-gender strata) and vitamin B-12 (18-45%). Iodine intake was sufficient in all age groups. Among the 101 adults who had neurobehavioral assessments, mean Z-scores were below 0, particularly for motor function among women (mean –1.2, standard deviation 0.7). Conclusions: Neurobehavioural performance was impaired in many individuals and the diet is in many ways inadequate, however no consistent relationship was observed between neurobehaviour and diet. Iodine dietary inadequacy has been virtually eradicated and riboflavin inadequacy has declined (80% in a 1994 study to 4% here) consistent with fortification programs. However, vitamin A, B12 and zinc inadequacies persisted, underscoring the continuing need for community level nutrition programs and national level efforts to promote sustainable livelihoods and dietary diversity.

Description

Also available at: www.healthbridge.ca/Berti%20Krasevec%20Cole%20Aug2004.pdf

Keywords

POTATOES, DIET, NUTRITION, VITAMIN INTAKE, NEUROBEHAVIOURAL TESTING, ECUADOR

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DOI