This chapter examines dietary intake patterns in the Caribbean to inform strategies for chronic disease prevention and control. Despite the significant rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers, there is a lack of credible, high-quality dietary intake data in the region. The review synthesizes available studies, highlighting gaps and future needs for effective nutrition policies. Dietary patterns in the Caribbean have shifted over the past three decades, with increased reliance on imported, processed foods and decreased consumption of traditional, locally grown and minimally processed foods. This transition has led to higher caloric intake and a rise in obesity and related NCDs. Population-based dietary assessments from Barbados, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago reveal that energy intake often exceeds recommended levels, with significant consumption of fats and sugars. The review underscores the need for renewed national food consumption studies and standardized dietary guidelines to promote healthier eating habits. Interventions to improve the food environment, promote nutrition literacy, and encourage healthy eating behaviors, particularly among school children, are essential. The review advocates for evidence-based policies, regional collaboration, and legislative support to enhance food security and reduce the burden of NCDs in the Caribbean.

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Understanding Dietary Intakes Patterns in the Caribbean to Inform Chronic Disease Prevention and Control

  • D. Dan Ramdath,
  • Eden Augustus,
  • Devina P. Ramdath,
  • Simon G. Anderson

摘要

This chapter examines dietary intake patterns in the Caribbean to inform strategies for chronic disease prevention and control. Despite the significant rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers, there is a lack of credible, high-quality dietary intake data in the region. The review synthesizes available studies, highlighting gaps and future needs for effective nutrition policies. Dietary patterns in the Caribbean have shifted over the past three decades, with increased reliance on imported, processed foods and decreased consumption of traditional, locally grown and minimally processed foods. This transition has led to higher caloric intake and a rise in obesity and related NCDs. Population-based dietary assessments from Barbados, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago reveal that energy intake often exceeds recommended levels, with significant consumption of fats and sugars. The review underscores the need for renewed national food consumption studies and standardized dietary guidelines to promote healthier eating habits. Interventions to improve the food environment, promote nutrition literacy, and encourage healthy eating behaviors, particularly among school children, are essential. The review advocates for evidence-based policies, regional collaboration, and legislative support to enhance food security and reduce the burden of NCDs in the Caribbean.