AN INVESTIGATION INTO SOUTH ASIAN MEN & WOMEN’S PERCEPTIONS OF HEALTHY EATING AND THEIR LIFESTYLE
Table of Contents
TOC \o "1-3" \h \z \u 1 Abstract
2 Acknowledgments
3 Chapter 1 Introduction
3.1 Background Outline
4 Chapter 2 Literature Review
5 Chapter 3 Research Methodology
5.1 Research Design
5.2 Sampling
5.3 Questionnaire Development
5.4 Data Collection
5.5 Data Analysis
5.6 Ethical Consideration
5.7 Limitations
6 Presentation, Interpretation and Analysis of Data
6.1 Perception of Healthy Eating
6.1.1 Perceived Healthy Food
6.1.2 Snacks
6.1.3 Healthy Drinks
6.1.4 Importance of Eating Healthy Foods
6.2 Eating Habits
6.3 Physical Activities
6.4 Lifestyle Check
7 Chapter 5 Discussion
7.1 Perception of Healthy Eating vs. Eating Habit
7.2 Importance of Eating Healthy Foods
7.3 Physical Activities
7.4 Lifestyle
8 Chapter 5 Conclusion
9 References
Table of Tables
TOC \h \z \c "Table" Table 1 Common and Healthy Food Consumed by Respondents Daily
Table 2 Characteristics of Healthy Food
Table 5 Common Snacks of Respondents
Table 6 Healthy Drinks
Table 3 Importance of Healthy Eating
Table 4 Benefits of Healthy Eating
Table 7 Eating Habits of Respondents
Table 8 Physical Activities of the Respondents
Table 9 Recommended Number of Hours to be Spent on Physical Activities by the Government
Table 10 Lifestyle of Respondents
1 Abstract
The main objective of the study is to investigate the perceptions of South Asian men and women regarding healthy eating and their lifestyle. Primary data were collected directly from the selected South Asian between ages 18 to 45, utilized at Bradford College Facility. The result of the study showed that most of the South Asian respondents relate healthy eating in eating fruits and wheat or bread, particularly Chapatti. Furthermore, they also believed that healthy lifestyle is important in maintaining healthy and stronger body, which enables them to live longer. However, the result also showed that these believed were not applied by most of the respondents, particularly the aspect of snacks and physical activities. Therefore, it will be important for the government to focus on different activities and programs which will push and persuade South Asian men and women to lead healthy lifestyle and practice healthy eating.
2 Acknowledgments
The completion of this paper will not be possible without working with great number of people whose contribution to the research and the making of the entire thesis. It is a pleasure to express my gratefulness to them all in my humble acknowledgment.
First I would like to acknowledge my gratitude to my adviser for his/her supervision, advice as well as guidance during the first stages of this research, at the same time provided me encouragement and support in different ways.
I gratefully thank all of the authors and researchers of all the resources I used in this paper.
I also thank all those individuals who participated in my study, by supplying my primary information.
For those who were unnamed, you know who you are, my sincere acknowledgment.
3 Chapter 1 Introduction 3.1 Background Outline
Eating healthy food and balance diet, together with the aid of physical activities or exercise are considered as the fundamental aspect of healthy lifestyle. However, there are different factors that must be considered in order to understand the eating habits and lifestyle of an individual. This primarily can be affected by different factors. One of this is the changing lifestyle of the people, where in everyone is in a hurry, and they don’t take much time to plan regarding their meal for a day (Mason n.d.). Thus, result them to take advantage and consume fast food. In addition, TV viewing and computer used are considered as additional factors that increase the number of obese children. This is because of the fact that it limits the physical activity of the children, instead they spend longer time sitting or lying, while some of them are consuming more junk food (CBC News 2008). Another important aspect is the impact or influence of the family, friends, school and work place towards healthy eating and lifestyle. It is important to consider that the family has a great influence in the decision of an individual in choosing the food that he or she wants to eat; this is the same with the influence of friends, particularly those children. In addition, it was found out that the school has a significant impact on the thinking of children towards food, thus food management in school cafeteria is important. This is the same in workplace, where in the availability of healthy foods is important to help employees to focus on eating healthy food and lifestyle.
Technology development has a great impact on the said factor. Due to the development of different computer game, more and more children as well as adults are engaging in online games, than to engage in physical games outside. Furthermore, due to availability of different transportation medium, such as cars, elevator and escalator, people are no longer exerting much effort in traveling from one place to another.
Above all, nutritional customs reflects the socialization and cultural patterns of ethnic groups. Culture is supported by models of standards and behaviors that are uniqueness of a given group. Aside from that, religious beliefs often order what types of foods may be eaten and how they should be prepared (Daniels 2003, p. 36).
South Asians are more likely to suffer from heart attack or stoke more than any other ethnic group (MyBindi.com 2002). In the UK, South Asians have higher rates of central obesity, higher blood pressure and greater risk of stroke compare to the general population (Health Survey for England cited in Barron 2008, p. 62). The said aspect is because of the fact that South Asian that is living in western countries is more likely to consumer a large amount of fat (MyBindi.com 2002).
This paper will investigate the perception of South Asian in their eating habits, and explore the lifestyle their lifestyle that more likely to impact their health, primarily the high rate of different disease in South Asian population in the UK. Perceptions of healthy eating can be considered as one of the many factors influencing people's eating habits. For this review, "perceptions of healthy eating" are defined as the public's and health professionals' meanings, understandings, views, attitudes and beliefs about healthy eating, eating for health, and healthy foods (Pacquette 2005).
4 Chapter 2 Literature Review
Healthy means different to different people, and in the wider concept, being healthy means not being ill for some. The perceptions of health are different to different people according to their social and cultural situations. (Ewles and Simnett 2003, p.3). People access their own health, according to their own norms and expectations. The idea of being healthy varies from different shape and form by their experience, knowledge, circumstances, values and expectations. For professionals in the health field, health may be seen as a physical disability or a disease as for other health workers they may view this differently and see health not purely as a disease but may considerer it more widely.
Today there are many national and local organizations recognized to improve the health of the public. (Hunt 2005, Online) acknowledged that national and local organizations/groups, companies, health professionals, communities, media and family members all have the power to influence health and are responsible for health.
In contrast according to (Wanless 2004, p.10) he held that individuals are responsible for their own health and for their children; he stated that people need to be enthusiastic in order to support their own health for a better decision.
Today the major health crisis and the fastest growing health problem is obesity. (Flegal et al, 1998). Flegal (1998) believed that obesity is increasingly common throughout the world.
The World Health Organization (2005) stated that obesity is a rising epidemic that is growing in many developed and developing countries.
Sattar and lean (2007 p.1) argued, that obesity is out of control in the U.K, and none of the measures being undertaken for obesity show sign of improvement to the problem.
However the causes for unhealthy weight gain are due to poor diet and lack of exercise that can also be associated with increased risk of emotional problems.
Another major problem for poorer diets is the credit crunch that may have affected many people’s diet and lives. According to Christians a researcher against poverty (2008, Online) suggested that 32% of British consumers are eating less healthily than they were last year as a result of food price increase. Industry experts are concerned that the credit crunch could have a negative effect on the nation's diet, with some consumers not being able to afford healthier products. Therefore obesity could become responsible for over 300,000 deaths each year in fact more obese patients need more referrals and need more prescribed drugs than a normal weight. Sattar and lean (2007 p.2).
Jebb (1999, P.2) alleged that the estimated cost for obesity will be approximately £3.5 billion per year if obesity is not managed. The prevention and the management of obesity has been a national government policy concern for a number of years. (NICE 2003, Online).
European Food Information Council (1998, Online) stated, unless steps are not taken for the prevention and the management of obesity it could increase up to double in the years. Even though there are many polices in place for obesity, (Sir Derek Wanless 2007, Online) argued that “too little is being done to tackle obesity in the UK”. He believed that the growing number of people who are obese can increase the burden on the NHS resources.
The 5 day programmes is a government proposal to encourage children and adolescents to eat their 5 a day to raise awareness of the health benefits and also improve access to fruit and vegetables through targeted action. (Department of Health 2007, Online). The 5 a day initiative is funded by the big lottery fund which is targeted to PCT’s and local communities like the deprived and poorest areas. The plan is aimed to help and encourage people to eat their 5 a day, to help people change their beliefs and attitudes and lastly to build knowledge and awareness where it is most needed.
The benefit of this policy is that encouraging 5 a day is very important for people who want to live a healthier lifestyle. People, who are in need the most, are people from the deprived and poorest areas that are in the worst health that concentration is required. It is important to acknowledge these people and show interest to get people involved in the 5 a day.
However there are number of barriers that still could occur for people in the socially deprived areas. People may not want to change their attitude and lifestyle when it comes down to healthy eating. Secondly not having access to healthy eating could be difficult for families who may not have transport. Some people from deprived areas who have manual/labor jobs may not be able to afford a healthy diet, and this could be another disadvantage. (5 Day 2007, Online) And lastly if parents themselves to not see the importance of the 5 a day initiative then this behavior and attitude will not become passed on to there children and family members.
Bradford council has introduced a new course for who may be overweight or obese. The course is held at Richard Dunn Sport Centre at a cost for 65p per session. The course and the area of work is now very much with the b active campaign that includes children, adolescents and their parents to participate in a one hour physical activity session with Bradford Bulls coaches which in addition includes a workshop based around healthy eating. Bradford Council 2008, Online. The benefits of having a healthy eating course and a physical activity course makes it accessible to all groups and background to attend these sessions, which will help benefit parents as well their children. This course for some will encourage children and adolescents to attend if parents do not think it is important or vice versa.
On the other hand the barriers is that for some parents taking children to these sessions could be a problem if they have no transport or if they lead a busy lifestyle. Another barrier is that if these sessions are mixed men and women or boys and girls then those especially from the Muslim community will not attend due to cultural understanding when it comes to dress code and facing other men or boys. Another barrier is that many would not know about these healthy and physical sessions if they do not attend sports clubs which is where information like this course is held. This could be another barrier for people, and especially people from the Asian and black community, courses and projects could be missed if information is not reached to deprived areas that are the most in need. (Bradford Council 2008, Online)
The Wanless Report (2004) holds individuals responsible for their own and their children’s health, but points out that people need to be actively supported to make better decisions about their own health, ( Wanless Report, 2004, p10, online). It notes that healthcare policies have been working towards a curative service rather than preventative one and so we have a ‘National Sickness Service’. A shift is needed to try and prevent the etiology of chronic diseases and this is to be achieved by educating people about their health and consequently influencing their lifestyle choices. A fully engaged public who is aware of what constitutes a healthy lifestyle and makes healthy choices is the vision set by this report.
The World Health Organization describes obesity as ‘a disease in which excess body fat has accumulated to such an extent that health may be adversely affected, (Ewles, 2005, p80). Apart from being a contributory factor in the etiology of diseases such as coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers and stroke in later life, (ibid, p84), obesity can lead to many health problems for young people including asthma, reproductive complications, orthopedic problems, gastrointestinal disorders and psychological and social problems, (Paw et el, 2007, pp 27-28).
The 2004 Chief Medical Officers report ‘At least 5 a week: Evidence on the impact of physical activity and its relationship to health’, firmly established a link between physical inactivity and obesity. It further signified the role of physical activity in promoting good health and preventing diseases such as CHD, some cancers, type 2 diabetes and arthritis, (2004, pp10-11, online). Fox (2003) points out that although insufficient evidence exists for the effectiveness of physical activity in preventing and treating obesity, it is well established in adults that activity contributes to weight loss, (p36). He further argues current levels of activity are inadequate to prevent the increase in obesity, especially if energy imbalance is a key contributor. Government guidelines for physical activity recommend 60 minutes of moderate intensity activity daily. At least twice a week this should include activities to improve bone health, (Ewles, 2005, p109).
Lack of physical activity can be associated with many factors. Fox asserts that activity is hard to come by in the U.K. Activity as transport, as play (being outside without parental supervision) and as sport has declined and sedentary time has increased, (2003, p37). While others suggest physical activity has been engineered out of the modern lifestyle, especially in the developed countries, (Byrne and Hills, 2007, p53).
The government has recognized that a multi-agency, multi-dimensional effort is required to get young people in the U.K. more active. Game Plan, the Governments Activity Co-ordination Team and Sport England’s Action Plan for England are all strategies to boost activity levels.
Global recognition of physical activity and its impact on health has come from the WHO’s ‘Global strategy on diet, physical activity and health’. It aims to reduce risk factors for chronic disease, increase awareness, develop and strengthen policies and monitor science and promote research, (WHO, 2004, online).
5 Chapter 3 Research Methodology 5.1 Research Design
This paper is a descriptive research that intends to show the different facts concerning the current status and situation, as it exists at the time of the study (Creswell 1994). In addition, it help to focus on the relationship and practices that exist, as well as the beliefs and processes that are going on, therefore, affecting the things that are in demand or in trend (Best 1970).
Basically, a descriptive research makes the most of explanation and surveys. The said aspect was the primary reason why this approach was chosen by the researcher, whose intention is to gather first hand data from the respondents. In addition, it permits flexible approach that when new issues and problems arise during the study, a further investigation can be conducted in order to fill the gap. Separately, the research will also be allowed to drop different unproductive areas of research from the original plan of the study. Above all, it will be fast and cost-effective (Creswell 1994). Another important characteristic of this approach, the research will be fast and cost-effective due to the fact that it will only be a cross-sectional.
Primary data was collected directly from the selected South Asian people in the UK. It used a set of questionnaire which will be distributed to the interested people. First of all, a pilot test was undertaken to test the wording, and time completing a questionnaire. Secondly, the final survey was conducted on a convenience sample. The questionnaire was designed in a way that was straightforward enough that respondents only needed to spend minimal time in the process (Creswell, 1994). On the other hand, secondary data where gathered from different online and offline resources such as books, articles, journals and report. By doing this, the result of the primary data will be connected or related to the past findings of other researchers and authors.
5.2 SamplingThe study utilized Bradford college facility in collating the research. The target sample group of the study is 15 for both South Asian men and women, who may consist of all ethnic groups, and between ages 18 to 45. The study was done by producing a poster and advertising around the college to inform possible respondents or subjects of the study, and then ask the interested individual to e-mail the researcher if they would like to participate. The sample population will be acquired by random sampling. It is important to consider that effective sampling from the sampling frame is the process of predicated on a through understanding the technique which focuses on maximizing the representativeness of the sample with respect to the sample frame and the population that is being represented by the sampling frame (Crosby & DiClemente 2006, p. 294). This study used the simple random sampling where in each element must have an equal and nonzero chance of being selected. This was achieved by applying a table of random number to a numbered sampling frame. On the other hand, it is important to consider the chance is lumpy, which means that the random selection does not always produce a sample that will represent the entire population (Crosby & DiClemente 2006, p. 296).
The sample population of the study was determined by writing down the codenames of the interested individuals, and then the researcher randomly picked codenames inside the box. Twenty codenames were chosen, in order to ensure that 15 reliable answers will be gathered.
The researcher e-mailed those chosen respondents which instructed them to answers or fills-up the questionnaire as honestly and correctly as they can, and ask them to return the questionnaire in on or before a specific time.
5.3 Questionnaire DevelopmentThe survey questionnaire was constructed in English, in order to cater to the wide ethic group of the respondents. And because the questionnaire is intended to focus on the perception and reaction of South Asian regarding healthy eating and lifestyle, the questionnaire was designed to both open and close response format. A closed or also known as the forced-choice question is one in which a number of alternative answer are already provided from which the respondents are to select one or more of the answers. On the other hand, the open-ended question is the one where in the respondents formulate their own answers (de Vaus 2002, p. 100). The main reason for using the both format is to handle the disadvantages and flaws of open and close format. Thus, it can cater to the motivation of the respondents and the difficulty of coding (de Vaus 2002, p. 100). Above all, the said two formats are needed in order to get the data that are needed in the study.
In addition, there are also some parts of the questionnaire where in the Likert System where applied. It is a ranking or rating scale that is use to measure the degree of agreement of the respondents. It enables the subjects to indicate his or her reaction with a given statement or attribute, where in the degree of agreement or disagreement were given a numerical value ranging from 1 to 4, therefore, the total numerical value can be calculated from all responses (Barnett 1991 & Underwood 2004).
The questionnaire is consists of 26 questions which focus on asking the perception about healthy eating, eating habit and lifestyle of the subjects. The questions were based from other researchers regarding eating habit and lifestyle. The questionnaire is consisted of 4 parts: perception about healthy eating habit (open format), eating habit (Likert), physical activities (Likert) and lifestyle check (Likert).
5.4 Data CollectionThe survey method or questionnaire method was used in order to gather data for this study. Survey is considered as the most common form of research method for collecting primary data. One of its purpose is to describe, e.g., to calculate the incidence of some event or to evaluate the allocation of some variables such as percentage of the population of different age groups, sex, religion, castes and languages, knowledge, attitude and acceptance of practices about particular issues, and other information of similar nature about the population (Commonwealth of Learning, 2000).
The recruitment of the respondents or subjects was done inside the University by series of advertisements which announce the different aspects of the study, such as its goals, objectives, and the different characteristics of the subjects that can join the investigation. Then uses the Internet in order to disseminate the questionnaire, thus communicate with the subjects. An electronic questionnaire or e-mail questionnaire is nothing more than a survey instrument for collecting data that is available on the computer (Creswell 2002, p. 403 cited in Cottrell & McKenzie 2005, p. 193). Essentially, an e-mail will be sent to the prospective participant with either an attachment or a Website address to locate and download the questionnaire, and e-mail back to the researcher. One of the advantages of the said approach is that the cost of mailing, which include the paper, copying, postage and return postage, will be eliminated. Aside from that e-mail questionnaires tend to get very quick responds (Francheschini 2000 cited in Cottrell & McKenzie 2005, p. 193). In addition, responses received can be formatted to enter directly into the computer, thus eliminating the manual data entry or scanning. The main advantages or limitations of e-mail questionnaire, is that fact that there are some individuals who doesn’t have Internet connection in their homes and there are studies which shows that there seem to be smaller numbers of people who complete electronic questionnaires compared to the mailed questionnaires (Francheschini 2000 & Neutens & Rubinson 2002 cited in Cottrell & McKenzie 2005, p. 193).
5.5 Data Analysis
In order to interpret the quantitative data that have been gathered, the researcher used this statistical formula:
1. Percentage – to determine the magnitude of the responses to the questionnaire.
n
% = -------- x 100 ; n – number of responses
N N – total number of respondents
Furthermore, SPSS was used in order to analyze the data gathered in more effective, easy and fast way.
5.6 Ethical ConsiderationThe risks that will be involved upon undertaking this research study include the approval of the respondents to allow the researcher to conduct the survey. A properly documented letter of intent and permission was made and mailed to all of the willing and chosen respondents. All of them will be informed regarding their rights to abstain from participation in the research and their rights to terminate any time their participation. Aside from that, they will also be informed regarding the confidentiality of their identity as well as his or her answers or responses. After a year, all of the information gathered in this study will be destroyed in order to protect the interest and privacy of the respondents.
5.7 Limitations
There are many limitations that were encountered during the implementation of this study. First is the difficulty in searching for related literatures that will directly pertains on the perception of South Asian regarding their eating habit, together with their lifestyle. Another limitation is the number of respondents or subjects to be studied, together with the sampling methods and data gathering approach that were applied and used in the study.
In addition, the primary data will be gathered only using the survey. Surveys are considered as limited only to the abrupt responses not like the one-on-one interviews, where in the respondents can further explain their answers to the questions of the researchers. In connection, the fact that the researcher and the respondents does not have the direct link with each other, can somewhat lessen the reliability of data, because the researchers may not know if the person who answered the questionnaire were stating the entire facts, or they might answer limited information or data.
6 Presentation, Interpretation and Analysis of Data 6.1 Perception of Healthy Eating 6.1.1 Perceived Healthy Food
Table SEQ Table \* ARABIC 1 Common and Healthy Food Consumed by Respondents Daily
Respondents
Percent of Cases(%)
N
Percent(%)
Common Consumed Foods
Bread or Wheat
19
20.2
65.5
Fruits
15
16.0
51.7
Chips
14
14.9
48.3
White Meat
11
11.7
37.9
Curry
10
10.6
34.5
Vegetables
9
9.6
31.0
Cereal
8
8.5
27.6
Dairy Products
5
5.3
17.2
Fastfood: Pizza, Burgers etc.
3
3.2
10.3
Total
94
100
324.1
Healthy Foods
Bread or Wheat
12
27.3
46.2
Fruits
12
27.3
46.2
Vegetables
7
15.9
26.9
Fish
7
15.9
26.9
Chicken
4
9.1
15.4
Milk and Cheese
1
2.3
3.8
Pasta
1
2.3
3.8
Total
44
100
169.2
Table 1 shows the perceived healthy foods for the respondents and foods that they consume daily. Respondents consider bread or wheat (27.3%), fruits (27.3%) and vegetables (15.9%) as healthy. It is followed by fish (15.9%), chicken (9.1%), milk and cheese (9.1%) and pasta (2.3%). On the other hand, it can be observe that the number of respondents who consume fruits in everyday life is lower, compare to the number of respondents who perceive fruits and vegetables as healthy (fruits = 27.3% vs. 16.0%; vegetables = 15.9% vs. 9.6%).
Table SEQ Table \* ARABIC 2 Characteristics of Healthy Food
Responses
N
Percent (%)
Contains vitamins, minerals and other important nutrients
12
57.1
They were told that these foods are healthy
6
28.6
Light and low in fat
2
9.5
Cooked at Home and Fresh
1
4.8
Total
21
100
6.1.2 Snacks
Thus, it is important to have a healthy snack in order to maintain healthy eating habit. Table 5 shows the common snacks consumed by the respondents. It shows that the most common snacks consumed by the respondents are sweets or confectionaries (40.5%) such as candies, cakes and cookies, but chocolate was considered by the respondents as their primary snack, followed by chips (38.1%). The primary reason by the respondents in choosing the said two snacks was because it tastes good and nice, at the same time, it is available anywhere and anytime and serves as energizer. Some 11.9% preferred fruits, 4.8% prefer wheat and 4.8% preferred carbonated drinks.
Table SEQ Table \* ARABIC 5 Common Snacks of Respondents
Snacks
Responses
Percent of Cases (%)
N
Percent%
Sweets: chocolates, candies, cakes, cookies etc.
17
40.5
65.4
Chips
16
38.1
61.5
Fruits
5
11.9
19.2
Carbonated Drinks
2
4.8
7.7
Wheat or Cereal
2
4.8
7.7
Total
42
100
161.5
6.1.3 Healthy Drinks
Fluid intakes are also an important aspect of healthy diet. It has a great impact on the health of each and every individual. Table 6 shows the perceived healthy drinks of the respondents. Majority of the respondents believe that fresh fruit juices (40%) are considered as the healthiest drink of all.
Table SEQ Table \* ARABIC 6 Healthy Drinks
Drinks
Respondents
Percent of Cases (%)
N
Percent (%)
Fresh Fruit Juices
20
40.0
74.1
Water
15
30.0
55.6
Diluted/Water Fruit Juices
8
16.0
29.6
Milk
5
10.0
18.5
Tea
1
2.0
3.7
Sugar Free Carbonated Drinks
1
2.0
3.7 6.1.4 Importance of Eating Healthy Foods
Table SEQ Table \* ARABIC 3 Importance of Healthy Eating
Gender
Responses
Total
Very Important
Not quite Important
Not Important
Male
11 (36.7%)
4 (13.3%)
0
15
Female
5 (16.67%)
6 (20%)
2 (6.7%)
13
Total
16
10
2
28
Table 3 shows the level of importance of healthy eating for the respondents based on their gender. It can be observed that male respondents (36.7%) considered healthy eating as very important compare with minority of female respondents (16.67%).
Most of the respondents believe that healthy eating is important because it helps them to have healthier, stronger and longer life. At the same time, it also helps them to maintain slim and fit body which enables them to move freely. As a result, healthy eating enables them to have healthy lifestyles. This is connected to perceived benefits of healthy eating of the respondents: it helps healthy body (29.3%); less prone to sickness (24.4%); help to look better by fit and fit body and good and glowing skin (24.4%); help to have longer life (14.6%); and helps to move freely (7.3%). On the other hand, 20% or majority of female respondents and 13.3% or minority of male respondents believed that healthy eating is not that important.
Table SEQ Table \* ARABIC 4 Benefits of Healthy Eating
Benefits
Responses
Percent of Cases (%)
N
Percent (%)
Maintain Healthy Body
12
29.3
44.4
Less Prone to Sickness
10
24.4
37.0
Help to Look Better – Fit Body and Good Skin
10
24.4
37.0
Longer Life
6
14.6
22.2
Move Freely
3
7.3
11.1
Total
41
100
151.9 6.2 Eating Habits
Table SEQ Table \* ARABIC 7 Eating Habits of Respondents
Statement
Strongly Agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
N
%
N
%
N
%
N
%
I am drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day
5
16.7
10
33.3
13
43.3
2
6.7
It is important to eat breakfast
14
46.7
14
46.7
2
6.7
0
0
It is important to eat lunch
11
36.7
18
60.0
1
3.3
0
0
Snacks can be used to replace meal
1
3.3
6
20.0
13
43.3
10
33.3
I am eating the recommended portion of foods at meal times
0
0
12
40.0
15
50.0
1
3.3
I am eating at least 5 servings of fruit and vegetables per day
4
13.3
6
20.0
15
50.0
4
13.3
I eat healthy diet
0
0
14
46.7
11
36.7
4
13.3
Table 7 shows the eating habits of the respondents. It focused on water intake and food consumption. Drinking the right amount of water in a day is important because it can maintain the right flow of blood and fluid inside the body. However, only 16.7% of the respondents strongly agreed and 33.3% of them agreed with the statement and majority of the respondents disagree with the said statement (43%) and it is disturbing that 2 of the respondents or 6.7% strongly disagree with the statement.
6.3 Physical Activities
Walking is considered as the most common exercise or physical activities of the respondents (60%). Most of them spend 15 minutes to 1 hour daily, while some are doing this due to their lifestyle (e.g. walks from their cars to the place where they’re about to go). The said result can be associated with different factors that are associated with the lifestyles of the respondents, primarily the availability of time to exercise; therefore they take advantage of walking from their homes or cars up to their desired place.
In addition, swimming, gym and stretching (16.67%) are the second most popular physical activities for the respondents. Most of them spent about 1 swimming session per week lift weights occasionally and spend 10 – 25 minutes in stretching daily. On the other hand, the result of the study showed that only few of the respondents were into: aerobics (13.3%), yoga and martial arts (10%), bicycling (6.67%) and football (3.3%). Thus, it is also connected to the issue of lack of time or accessibility to the different facilities which will enable them exercise.
Table SEQ Table \* ARABIC 8 Physical Activities of the Respondents
Physical Activities
N
Total
Male
Female
Stretching
3
2
5
Walking
8
10
18
Swimming
4
1
5
Bicycling
2
0
2
Aerobics
3
1
4
Yoga
2
1
3
Martial Arts
3
0
3
Gym
5
0
5
Football
1
0
1
Table SEQ Table \* ARABIC 9 Recommended Number of Hours to be Spent on Physical Activities by the Government
Recommendation
Frequency
Percent (%)
Valid Percent (%)
None
0
0
0
30 – 60 min/week
1
3.3
3.4
1 – 3 hours/week
8
26.7
27.6
30 – 60 min/day
18
60
62.1
1 – 3 hours/day
2
6.7
6.9
Total
29
96.8
100.0
Missing
1
3.3
Total
30
100.00
6.4 Lifestyle Check
Table SEQ Table \* ARABIC 10 Lifestyle of Respondents
Statement
Strongly Agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
Male
Female
Male
Female
Male
Female
Male
Female
I exercise regularly to maintain fitness
5
1
8
2
0
12
0
0
Vitamin/Mineral Supplements are part of my healthy diet
3
4
9
8
3
3
0
0
I regularly check my weight and compare it to my body index
1
2
7
5
4
6
1
2
I keep food diary to review my eating habits to make any necessary changes in my diet
2
0
1
0
9
9
3
6
By leading a healthy lifestyle, I am likely to live longer
9
3
6
6
0
2
0
3
I consider myself to healthy
5
0
7
8
0
6
0
1
Different lifestyle or health related habit has a great impact on health (North West Public Health n.d.). It focuses on physical activities, intake of vitamins and supplements, weight and food management.
7 Chapter 5 Discussion 7.1 Perception of Healthy Eating vs. Eating Habit
Most of the respondents perceived that fruits, vegetables and bread are healthy. This is supported by studies which show that high intake of fruit and vegetables is perceived as healthy such as Margetts & Nelson 1999, Hankin & Wilkens 1994 and Willet & Lenart 1998 (Vainio & Bianchini 2003, p. 29). In addition, white meat is an important aspect of South Asian diet. The result of the study of the US National Cancer Institute showed that those people who eat highest proportion of red or processed meat had a higher risk of death, specifically cancer, on the other hand those who ate the highest proportion of white meat had a lower risk of overall death, as well as lower risk of fatal cancer or heart disease (BBC 2009). The issue of less consumption of healthy foods can be explained by the result of the study by Bower & Ferguson (2008) of 100 primary school children. The study shows that, the respondents like the refreshing juiciness, flavors and colors of fresh fruit, together with the fact that it is healthy, however, the respondents express dislike because of the poor keeping quality of fruit, thus it is not convenient to carry and store because it bruised easily, easily squashed in bag. Above all, children perceive fresh fruit as boring. Therefore, in summary, healthy eating was defined by the respondents as eating food that is rich with different vitamins and nutrients such as bread and fruits (see table 2). Chapatti was considered by most of the respondents are the healthiest bread of all. This is because many suggested that it contains vegetables, which they considered as healthy, but preferences for Chapatti over vegetables can be associated to the taste. Thus, it can help their body to be strong and fit, at the same time, help them with their daily activities. The said result is similar with the result of the study about the perception of health eating by 140 youth with diabetes which show that healthy eating was defined in terms of eating fruits and vegetables, low fat, low sugar and eating in order to keep blood sugar in range (Gellar & Schrader 2007). I addition, some of the respondents said that the primary reason which drives them to eat healthy food is because they were told to do so, or they were informed that those foods are healthy and good for their bodies. Furthermore, they also believe that all of these foods are light and low in fat, therefore, enable them to maintain their fitness. Above all, one of the respondents stated that these foods are all healthy because it is fresh and it is cooked at home. Therefore it gives them the idea of security regarding the preparation of the foods.
On the other hand quick snack can help to stave off hunger (American Dietetic Association 2009). In terms of snack, the result of the study support the study of Bower & Ferguson (2008), which show that people prefer chips as a snack because little boxes means they don’t have t eat it in one go, aside from that, there’s no peeling required and have a longer keeping qualities.
Regarding fluid intake, the respondents considered orange, apple and cranberry as the healthiest juice of all. It is somewhat alarming that only 30% of the respondents believed that water is a healthy drink, together with the fact that one of the respondents considered sugar-free carbonated drink as healthy. In addition, the respondents also considered diluted or bottled juices (16%), milk (10%) and tea (2%) as healthy drinks. The result is connected to the perception of people that fruits are healthy. Furthermore, fruits are associated with natural sugar.
7.2 Importance of Eating Healthy FoodsThe importance of healthy eating varies on the gender of respondents. This observation, which represents the biomedical view of heath (Dines & Cribb 1993), is normally reported as a common interpretation of health among varying age groups of population (Bowling 1991). This result is opposite from the result of the study of 297 post-16 students were in, female respondents portrayed a more positive conception of health with female significantly reporting the importance of positive health behaviors (Thomas 2005). However, the study is supported by the same result showed by O’Dea & Caputi (2001).
The respondents are also prefer juice than water, primarily, the respondents prefer to drinks fresh and bottle fruit juices and energy drinks because of its taste. Breakfast is considered as the most important meal. Studies show that children who eat breakfast do better in school and adults to feel better and perform better at work (Jegtvig 2009). Majority of the respondents strongly agree (46.7%) and agree (46.7%) with the statement, where in they considered that it is very important to eat breakfast in order to start the day right. On the other hand, it is alarming that 2 respondents or 6.7% of them do not believe in the statement. The same situation can also be applied about the importance of lunch. Majority of the respondents or 60% agree with the statement, while 36.7% strongly agree, however 1 of the respondents or 3.3% of the respondents disagree. Due to the changing lifestyles of the people, particularly those adults who are into busy works and schedules, some of them are skipping lunch and taking up snacks instead in order to gain energy to continue their works. However, it is important to take note that eating at the right time is considered as one of the most important aspect of healthy eating. The respondents believe in that statement, where in they strongly disagree (33.3%) and disagree (43.3%) that snacks can used to replace meal. In addition, eating the right amount portion of foods at meal times is important because it helps individuals to control the amount of fat, sugar and carbohydrates intakes. This will help people to maintain fitness and healthy body. It is alarming that most of the respondents (strongly disagree = 33%; disagree = 50%) confessed that they are not eating the recommended amount of foods at meal times, while 40% are somewhat sure that they are taking the right amount of food intakes every meal time. Most of the respondents believed that fruits are the healthiest foods, however, it is recommended to eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day in order to help and support the digestive system. Although majority of the respondents are aware about the said information, majority of them (strongly disagree = 13.3%; disagree = 50%) confessed that they do not follow the said recommendation. As a result, 50% (strongly disagree = 36.7%; disagree = 13.3%) believed that they are not eating healthy diet, compare with 46.7 who believed that they are into healthy eating habits.
7.3 Physical ActivitiesPhysical inactivity is considered as one of the major health problem because it helps to increase the rates of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis as well as cancer (Byberg & Melhus 2009). Thus, physical activities are beneficial for health, at the same time prolongs life among younger individuals (Byberg & Melhus 2009). Thus, the said situation is important for many South Asian men and women, because of the fact that they are commonly the victim of different cardiovascular diseases. However, the respondents revealed that they are not so physically active. Thus, table 8 shows that men respondents are more active than women. The primary reason why most of the respondents spent 30 minutes – 1 hour of physical activities is because of the fact that they believe that it is the right amount of physical activities time recommended by the government. Table 9 shows that 60% of the respondents stated that the government recommended 30 – 60 minutes of physical activities will help to maintain healthy lifestyle, while other recognized 30 – 60 min/week (3.3%), 1 – 3 hours/week (26.7) and 1 – 3 hours/day (6.7%). However, it is alarming that although the government is already recommending things and activities in order to follow by the people, some of them are still not following or exerting effort in order to focus on their health.
7.4 LifestyleIt is somewhat unusual to find out that the male respondents are more conscious and aware of exercising daily in order to maintain their fitness. However, the result reflects the findings about the physical activities of the respondents. It is alarming that majority of female respondents disagree with the statement "I exercise regularly to maintain fitness." This is because exercise is very important in maintaining healthy body. However, it is connected to the first findings that men respondents are more concerned about healthy eating and lifestyle compare with the female respondents.
On the other hand, intake of vitamin and mineral supplements is also important because it helps to supply needed vitamins and minerals. In this aspect, most of male and female respondents take specific vitamins in order to boost up their immune system. However, 3 male and female respondents declared that they do not take up any vitamin supplements. Maintenance is also another important factor in maintaining healthy lifestyle. Thus, it is very important to make sure that the weight is equivalent to the body index. This is because of the fact that being overweight has a great impact on the health of a person. The result showed that minority of the respondents are very particular in measuring and maintaining their weight (1 male, 2 females), while 7 males and 5 females are doing it in occasional basis. Alarmingly, 13 respondents do not follow the said statement, primarily because they are not properly informed. In connection, it is also very helpful to use food diary or journal in order to control and manage individual's diet. This can help people to know if they are consuming too much sugar, fat and carbohydrates, which can affect their health. The result of the study showed that only 3 males were aware and practicing the said activity, thus the remaining were not aware or not willing to apply it in their daily lifestyles. Majority of the respondents (12 males, 12 females) believe that healthy lifestyle can help them to live longer. But despite of the said beliefs, most of the respondents are not applying healthy lifestyles in order to ensure healthy and strong body, thus ensure longer life. Just like what expected, male South Asian respondents are more positive that they are healthy, compare with female. Thus, most of female are somewhat sure that they are leading unhealthy lifestyle.
Thus, the result of the study showed that male respondents are more informed and knowledgeable about healthy eating and lifestyle than the female respondents. This is opposite with the result of other studies. The study of 234 respondents with ages varying between 13 and 90 years, with median age of 38 years old, shows that there is no differences which existed between healthy eating and lifestyle perception of men and women and concluded that lay perceptions of healthy eating conformed with the nutritional and dietary guidelines, which suggest that people are generally knowledgeable regarding the issues regarding healthy and unhealthy eating (Povey & Conner 1998). In addition, another study of 157 school children aged between 11 – 13 years-old showed that although children appeared to be knowledgeable regarding nutrition, it was evident that girls are tended to be more concerned than boys regarding what they ate (Seaman & Woods 1997).
8 Chapter 5 Conclusion
In conclusion, the author showed that South Asian respondents were all aware of healthy eating habit and lifestyle. Furthermore, it had found out that fruit and wheat was considered by the respondents as the healthiest food. Fruit because they've been told that it's good for them, while wheat or bread because of their Chapatti, a bread common for South Asian. Thus, it shows that the perception of healthy eating is being affected by the culture. Because of the fact that the South Asian respondents were already staying and living in the UK, they have been affected by the English culture, thus it can be observed in their snacks. Most of the respondents reported that they prefer chocolate, chips and fruits as their snacks, primarily because they are easy to prepare and find, at the same time, there are healthy chips that are available in the market. This is connected to the changing lifestyles of the people, where in they prefer snacks that will give immediate energy such as sweets and confectionaries, easy to hold like chips because of their busy schedules. It was also found out that most of the respondents believed that fresh fruit juices are healthy drinks compare with water. This can be attributed to the sweet taste of fruit juices such as orange and apple.
In addition, it was also observed by the author that male respondents were giving importance towards healthy eating compare with female respondents. Thus, the respondents believed that healthy eating can help them to maintain their healthy and strong body which enables them to have a better lifestyle and longer life, at the same time helps them to look better.
In terms of eating habits, it is somewhat alarming that majority of the respondents were not particular with the importance of drinking lots of water. However, majority of the respondents knew that taking up breakfast and lunch at the right time is important to maintain healthy eating habits. In addition, most of them believed that snacks cannot be used as a replacement to meal. However, most more than half of the respondents stated that they are not eating the recommended portion of foods at meal, this might cause under- or overweight. Furthermore, even though, the respondents relate fruits to healthiness and wellness, most of them were not eating at least 5 servings of fruit and vegetables per day.
It was also found out that most of the respondents were not physically active. Even though they are aware that the government recommends 30 - 60 minutes of physical activities or exercise. Walking is considered as the most popular physical activities done by the respondents. In that case, it can be said that time or schedule is the primary hindrance in becoming physically active.
The said factor reflected on the lifestyles of the respondents, were in many of them, and mostly female, do not exercise regularly, do not check their weight and do not keep food diary. This showed, even though, most of the respondents believed that healthy lifestyle can help them to have a longer life.
As a result, male respondents are more positive and confident that they are healthy, compare with female respondents. Thus, it will be important for the government to focus on informing female South Asian citizens. This is because of the fact that they can be considered as the stubborn group in the study. Aside from that, it is important for the government to focus on the making the South Asian citizens to participate in different physical activities such as group exercise. It will also be important to inform them by advertisement that South Asian are prone with different cardiovascular diseases, therefore, it will be necessary for them to be physically active.
The result of the study showed, that South Asian respondents are informed about the different important aspects regarding healthy lifestyle and eating, however they are not applying it in their daily lives. Therefore, it will be important for the government to launch different activities and programs which will push the persuade them to be healthy in terms of eating and lifestyle.
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