ARS | Publication request: Changes in intakes of selected foods rich in bioactive compounds

Submitted to: American Dietetic Association Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract
Publication Acceptance Date: April 1, 2007
Publication Date: August 1, 2007
Citation: Ahuja, J.K., Omolewa Tomobi, G., Goldman, J.D., Moshfegh, A.J. 2007. Changes in intakes of selected foods rich in bioactive compounds [abstract]. Journal of the American Dietetic Association. 107(8) Supplement:A-30.

Technical Abstract: Several foods have received considerable attention in recent years because of their possible protective effect on cardiovascular diseases and cancer. These foods are rich in bioactive compounds and include blueberries, strawberries, broccoli, soymilk, and tea. Dietary intake data for males and females, 19 years and older, from What We Eat in America, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2001-2004 (N=9714) and Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals 1994-96 (N=10019) were analyzed to determine if the public attention on these foods has led to increased intakes. Mean (SE) intakes and percentage consuming these foods were determined when the food was reported separately, as well as ingredients in main food items, such as blueberries in blueberry muffins. The differences between the two surveys were tested for significance. Results show that there were no significant changes in intakes of blueberries, except an increase among females, 51 years and older. The percent of adults consuming strawberries increased slightly, whereas mean daily intakes and the proportion of the population consuming broccoli decreased. There were significant increases in both mean intakes and percent consuming soymilk (p<0.001). The percentage of the population consuming tea decreased from 27 to 23%, but the amount of tea consumed by users increased from 607 (11.8) grams to 773 (24.9) grams daily (p<0.001). These results show that the recent public attention about the possible health benefits of these foods has not translated into major consumption changes among adults in the U.S.