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Malek Batal. Diet quality and food security among Indigenous children in Canada: facing the legacy of decades of dispossession and governmental neglect. Public Health Nutrition 2021, 1 -9.
AMA StyleMalek Batal. Diet quality and food security among Indigenous children in Canada: facing the legacy of decades of dispossession and governmental neglect. Public Health Nutrition. 2021; ():1-9.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMalek Batal. 2021. "Diet quality and food security among Indigenous children in Canada: facing the legacy of decades of dispossession and governmental neglect." Public Health Nutrition , no. : 1-9.
Hing Man Chan; Kavita Singh; Malek Batal; Lesya Marushka; Constantine Tikhonov; Tonio Sadik; Harold Schwartz; Amy Ing; Karen Fediuk. Correction to: Levels of metals and persistent organic pollutants in traditional foods consumed by First Nations living on-reserve in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2021, 1 .
AMA StyleHing Man Chan, Kavita Singh, Malek Batal, Lesya Marushka, Constantine Tikhonov, Tonio Sadik, Harold Schwartz, Amy Ing, Karen Fediuk. Correction to: Levels of metals and persistent organic pollutants in traditional foods consumed by First Nations living on-reserve in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health. 2021; ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleHing Man Chan; Kavita Singh; Malek Batal; Lesya Marushka; Constantine Tikhonov; Tonio Sadik; Harold Schwartz; Amy Ing; Karen Fediuk. 2021. "Correction to: Levels of metals and persistent organic pollutants in traditional foods consumed by First Nations living on-reserve in Canada." Canadian Journal of Public Health , no. : 1.
Background For the Syilx Okanagan Nation in Canada, salmon has vital nutritional, cultural, and spiritual significance. Yet, the Okanagan Sockeye salmon population came to near extinction, resulting in a drastic decline in salmon consumption from high historical levels. Thus, restoring and protecting salmon is crucial to Syilx well-being and way of life. A Syilx-led food sovereignty initiative re-established the Okanagan Sockeye salmon population, which has resulted in a rise in fish harvesting. The aim of this study was to assess whether engaging with this initiative was associated with health, well-being, and cultural connectedness (i.e., degree to which one is integrated in their culture) among Syilx adults. Eating Okanagan Sockeye salmon was conceptualized as a proxy for engaging with this Indigenous food sovereignty initiative. Methods 265 Syilx adults completed a survey including a traditional food frequency questionnaire and questions on health status (e.g., BMI, self-assessed physical health), well-being (e.g., life satisfaction, stress levels), and cultural connectedness (e.g., sense of belonging, importance of cultural practices). Participants were divided into 3 groups based on their wild salmon eating during the year prior to the survey: (1) adults who ate Okanagan Sockeye salmon, (2) adults who ate salmon but did not usually know the species of the salmon they ate, or who solely ate salmon that were not Okanagan Sockeye; and (3) adults who did not eat any salmon. Results A statistically significant gradient was observed for enhanced well-being and cultural connectedness, with individuals in group 1 having better indicators than those in group 2, and adults in groups 1 and 2 having better indicators than adults in group 3. No differences were observed in physical health outcomes between the three groups. Conclusion Findings suggest that the initiative to re-establish Okanagan Sockeye salmon in the Okanagan River system may have led to better well-being and cultural connectedness among Syilx adults. This study highlights the importance of Indigenous food sovereignty as a way to enhance well-being and cultural connectedness among First Nations in Canada. Findings also reinforce the importance of assessing health and well-being in a wholistic way in Indigenous health research.
Rosanne Blanchet; Malek Batal; Louise Johnson-Down; Suzanne Johnson; Colette Louie; Eliza Terbasket; Pauline Terbasket; Howie Wright; Noreen Willows; Okanagan Nation Salmon Reintroduction Initiatives. An Indigenous food sovereignty initiative is positively associated with well-being and cultural connectedness in a survey of Syilx Okanagan adults in British Columbia, Canada. BMC Public Health 2021, 21, 1 -12.
AMA StyleRosanne Blanchet, Malek Batal, Louise Johnson-Down, Suzanne Johnson, Colette Louie, Eliza Terbasket, Pauline Terbasket, Howie Wright, Noreen Willows, Okanagan Nation Salmon Reintroduction Initiatives. An Indigenous food sovereignty initiative is positively associated with well-being and cultural connectedness in a survey of Syilx Okanagan adults in British Columbia, Canada. BMC Public Health. 2021; 21 (1):1-12.
Chicago/Turabian StyleRosanne Blanchet; Malek Batal; Louise Johnson-Down; Suzanne Johnson; Colette Louie; Eliza Terbasket; Pauline Terbasket; Howie Wright; Noreen Willows; Okanagan Nation Salmon Reintroduction Initiatives. 2021. "An Indigenous food sovereignty initiative is positively associated with well-being and cultural connectedness in a survey of Syilx Okanagan adults in British Columbia, Canada." BMC Public Health 21, no. 1: 1-12.
Objective Assess the diet quality of First Nations adults in Canada using percentage energy from traditional foods (TF) and ultra-processed products (UPP), food portions from the 2007 Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide - First Nations, Inuit and Métis (EWCFG-FNIM) and a Healthy Eating Index (HEI). Methods Data collection for this participatory research occurred in 92 First Nations reserves across Canada from 2008 to 2016. Percent daily energy intakes were estimated from 24-hour recalls for TF and NOVA food categories. Portions of food groups from the 2007 EWCFG-FNIM were compared to recommendations. A Canadian-adapted HEI was calculated for each participant. Results The percent energy from TF was 3% for all participants and 18% for consumers. Meat and alternatives were above the EWCFG-FNIM recommendations and all other food groups were below these. HEI was “low” with only older individuals attaining “average” scores. HEI was above “average” in 4 regions. UPP represented 55% of energy, the largest proportion from a NOVA category. Conclusion The diet quality of First Nations adults in Canada is nutritionally poor. The nutrition, food security and health of First Nations would be improved by better access to TF and healthy store-bought food. However, poor diet is only one aspect of the difficulties facing First Nations in Canada. Researchers and policy makers must strive to better understand the multiple challenges facing First Nations Peoples in order to foster empowerment and self-determination to develop First Nations living conditions and lifestyles that are more culturally sound and more conducive to health.
Malek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Amy Ing; Karen Fediuk; Peter Berti; Tonio Sadik; Louise Johnson-Down. Comparison of measures of diet quality using 24-hour recall data of First Nations adults living on reserves in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2021, 112, 41 -51.
AMA StyleMalek Batal, Hing Man Chan, Amy Ing, Karen Fediuk, Peter Berti, Tonio Sadik, Louise Johnson-Down. Comparison of measures of diet quality using 24-hour recall data of First Nations adults living on reserves in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health. 2021; 112 (S1):41-51.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMalek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Amy Ing; Karen Fediuk; Peter Berti; Tonio Sadik; Louise Johnson-Down. 2021. "Comparison of measures of diet quality using 24-hour recall data of First Nations adults living on reserves in Canada." Canadian Journal of Public Health 112, no. S1: 41-51.
Objectives To identify food sources of nutrients in First Nations adults in Canada and to establish whether these populations are meeting their nutrient requirements and whether traditional foods (TF) contribute to better nutrient intake. Methods The First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study is a cross-Canada participatory study of First Nations adults living south of the 60th parallel. Twenty-four-hour recalls were conducted in 92 First Nations communities from 2008 to 2016. Repeat recalls were attempted with 20% of participants to adjust for within-person variation and estimate the proportion of individuals below recommendations according to Institute of Medicine guidelines. Nutrients from days with and without TF were compared. The main food sources of select nutrients were identified, including TF. Results Mean energy intakes among women and men ranged from 1664 to 1864 and from 1761 to 2298 kcal/day respectively. Most macronutrients were within the acceptable macronutrient diet range except for fat in most age groups and carbohydrates in men 71 years of age and older. Saturated fat was above recommendations for all ages. Only niacin was identified as above recommendations in all age and sex categories. Days where TF were eaten showed greater intakes of key nutrients. Conclusion It is imperative that we find culturally appropriate ways to improve the quality and nutritional value of First Nations Peoples food intake by improving TF access and use on the one hand and conversely providing better quality store-bought foods. For success in this, we must empower First Nations communities and health practitioners to collaboratively overcome these challenges.
Malek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Amy Ing; Karen Fediuk; Peter Berti; Tonio Sadik; Louise Johnson-Down. Nutrient adequacy and nutrient sources of adults among ninety-two First Nations communities across Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2021, 112, 29 -40.
AMA StyleMalek Batal, Hing Man Chan, Amy Ing, Karen Fediuk, Peter Berti, Tonio Sadik, Louise Johnson-Down. Nutrient adequacy and nutrient sources of adults among ninety-two First Nations communities across Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health. 2021; 112 (S1):29-40.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMalek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Amy Ing; Karen Fediuk; Peter Berti; Tonio Sadik; Louise Johnson-Down. 2021. "Nutrient adequacy and nutrient sources of adults among ninety-two First Nations communities across Canada." Canadian Journal of Public Health 112, no. S1: 29-40.
Objectives First Nations may have a higher risk of contaminant exposure from the consumption of traditional foods. The objective of this study was to measure concentrations of metals and organochlorines in traditional foods commonly consumed by First Nations in Canada and estimate the risk from dietary exposure. Methods Data were collected from the participatory First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study (2008–2018). Traditional food samples were collected by community members and concentrations of metals and organochlorines were measured. The population-weighted mean daily contaminant intake from traditional food items was estimated. Hazard quotients (HQs) were calculated by dividing contaminant intake with the toxicological reference values (TRVs). Results A total of 2061 food samples (different parts and organs) from 221 species were collected. The highest concentrations of cadmium were found in the kidneys of land mammals: moose kidney was the most significant contributor to intake. The meat of land mammals and birds had the highest lead concentrations and were the most significant contributors to intake. Arsenic was highest in seaweed, and prawn was the most significant contributor. Mercury and methyl mercury were highest in harp seal meat, with walleye/pickerel contributing most to intake. Harp seal meat also had the highest p,p′-DDE and PCB concentrations, and ooligan grease and salmon were the most significant contributors to intake. The percentage of adults eating traditional food who exceeded the TRVs was 1.9% for cadmium, 3.7% for lead, 13.6% for arsenic, 0.7% for mercury, and 0% for p,p′-DDE and PCBs. All median HQs, and most 95th percentile HQs, were less than 1. Conclusion These results can be used as a baseline of contaminant levels and exposure in traditional foods for future monitoring programs and to support risk assessment programs.
Hing Man Chan; Kavita Singh; Malek Batal; Lesya Maruska; Constantine Tikhonov; Tonio Sadik; Harold Schwartz; Amy Ing; Karen Fediuk. Levels of metals and persistent organic pollutants in traditional foods consumed by First Nations living on-reserve in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2021, 112, 81 -96.
AMA StyleHing Man Chan, Kavita Singh, Malek Batal, Lesya Maruska, Constantine Tikhonov, Tonio Sadik, Harold Schwartz, Amy Ing, Karen Fediuk. Levels of metals and persistent organic pollutants in traditional foods consumed by First Nations living on-reserve in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health. 2021; 112 (S1):81-96.
Chicago/Turabian StyleHing Man Chan; Kavita Singh; Malek Batal; Lesya Maruska; Constantine Tikhonov; Tonio Sadik; Harold Schwartz; Amy Ing; Karen Fediuk. 2021. "Levels of metals and persistent organic pollutants in traditional foods consumed by First Nations living on-reserve in Canada." Canadian Journal of Public Health 112, no. S1: 81-96.
Objective Our objective is to describe self-reported health status, prevalence of diabetes and obesity and their associations in participants from the First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study (FNFNES) in order to identify possible correlates of health in First Nations adults. Methods FNFNES is a participatory study with First Nations Peoples living on reserve lands south of the 60th parallel. Health and diabetes were self-reported, and prevalence of obesity was evaluated. Socio-demographic and lifestyle factors and traditional food (TF) activities were investigated for associations with health parameters. Results High prevalence rates of overweight/obesity (78–91%) and diabetes (19% age-standardized prevalence) were found. Smoking rates were high and physical activity was low. In multivariable analyses, obesity was associated with region, income source, age, gender, smoking and self-reported health; diabetes and lesser self-reported health were associated with obesity and lower education. Diabetes was strongly associated with lesser self-reported health and weakly associated with being a smoker. Conclusion We have identified possible correlates of health in this population that can help to better understand the underlying concerns and identify solutions for First Nations and their partners. We urge governments and First Nations to address the systemic problems identified with a holistic ecosystem approach that takes into consideration the financial and physical access to food, particularly TF, and the facilitation of improved health behaviour. New mechanisms co-developed with First Nations leadership should focus on supporting sustainable, culturally safe and healthy lifestyles and closing the gaps in nutrition and food insecurity.
Malek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Karen Fediuk; Amy Ing; Peter Berti; Tonio Sadik; Louise Johnson-Down. Associations of health status and diabetes among First Nations Peoples living on-reserve in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2021, 112, 154 -167.
AMA StyleMalek Batal, Hing Man Chan, Karen Fediuk, Amy Ing, Peter Berti, Tonio Sadik, Louise Johnson-Down. Associations of health status and diabetes among First Nations Peoples living on-reserve in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health. 2021; 112 (S1):154-167.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMalek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Karen Fediuk; Amy Ing; Peter Berti; Tonio Sadik; Louise Johnson-Down. 2021. "Associations of health status and diabetes among First Nations Peoples living on-reserve in Canada." Canadian Journal of Public Health 112, no. S1: 154-167.
Objective To describe the prevalence of food insecurity in First Nations households across Canada while identifying barriers and enablers to traditional food (TF) consumption. Methods The First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study is a cross-Canada participatory study of on-reserve First Nations from 2008 to 2018. The Household Food Security Survey Module was used to capture income-related challenges experienced by First Nations households. Households were classified as food secure, or marginally, moderately, or severely food insecure. Barriers and enablers to TF access and use were identified describing the Indigenous experience. Results Almost half of on-reserve First Nations households were food insecure and the prevalence was higher than that for non-Indigenous households in Canada. On-reserve food insecurity prevalence was higher in western regions of Canada. First Nations households with children experienced greater food insecurity than those without children. More adults experienced severe food insecurity than children. Most adults would like to have more TF in their diet but state that factors such as financial and household constraints, industrial activities, government regulations, climate change, and fear of contamination impede greater access. Food costs were substantially higher in remote First Nations communities, but remoteness was not associated with food security in multivariable analysis. Conclusion Existing systems have been unsuccessful in curbing the food insecurity in First Nations households. Improving food security hinges on achieving Indigenous Food Sovereignty, the key to long-term conservation and stewardship of the land and the co-management of these by Indigenous Peoples. Studies investigating the feasibility of increasing TF from an Indigenous perspective are required.
Malek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Karen Fediuk; Amy Ing; Peter R. Berti; Genevieve Mercille; Tonio Sadik; Louise Johnson-Down. First Nations households living on-reserve experience food insecurity: prevalence and predictors among ninety-two First Nations communities across Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2021, 112, 52 -63.
AMA StyleMalek Batal, Hing Man Chan, Karen Fediuk, Amy Ing, Peter R. Berti, Genevieve Mercille, Tonio Sadik, Louise Johnson-Down. First Nations households living on-reserve experience food insecurity: prevalence and predictors among ninety-two First Nations communities across Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health. 2021; 112 (S1):52-63.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMalek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Karen Fediuk; Amy Ing; Peter R. Berti; Genevieve Mercille; Tonio Sadik; Louise Johnson-Down. 2021. "First Nations households living on-reserve experience food insecurity: prevalence and predictors among ninety-two First Nations communities across Canada." Canadian Journal of Public Health 112, no. S1: 52-63.
Objective To describe the traditional food (TF) systems of First Nations in Canada, including intake, barriers and promoters. Methods The First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study is a cross-Canada participatory study of First Nations adults below the 60th parallel that obtained data for communities excluded from other national studies. A food frequency questionnaire was used to establish frequency of TF intake (number of days in a year) to allow comparisons across ecozones/regions in Canada. Grams of TF intake were also calculated using frequency multiplied by average portions from 24-h recalls. Closed- and open-ended questions attempted to identify some of the key barriers and concerns regarding TF access and use. Multivariable analyses were run to determine what factors are associated with increased TF consumption. Results Across communities, there is a strong preference by adults to have TF in the diet more often. Consumption of land animals was most frequently reported in most ecozones except for the Pacific Maritime and Mixedwood Plains, where fish and plants, respectively, were more frequently consumed. First Nations identified structural and environmental challenges such as development, government regulations and climate change, along with household barriers such as insufficient capital for equipment and transportation, lack of time and absence of a hunter in the household. Multivariable analyses revealed that the highest intake of TF occurred in the Taiga Plains ecozone, and for older individuals and men. Conclusion Identifying solutions that empower First Nations at all levels is required to overcome the multiple challenges to the inclusion of TF in the diet.
Malek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Karen Fediuk; Amy Ing; Peter Berti; Tonio Sadik; Louise Johnson-Down. Importance of the traditional food systems for First Nations adults living on reserves in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2021, 112, 20 -28.
AMA StyleMalek Batal, Hing Man Chan, Karen Fediuk, Amy Ing, Peter Berti, Tonio Sadik, Louise Johnson-Down. Importance of the traditional food systems for First Nations adults living on reserves in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health. 2021; 112 (S1):20-28.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMalek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Karen Fediuk; Amy Ing; Peter Berti; Tonio Sadik; Louise Johnson-Down. 2021. "Importance of the traditional food systems for First Nations adults living on reserves in Canada." Canadian Journal of Public Health 112, no. S1: 20-28.
Objective To describe the rationale, the participatory nature of the methodology, and the lessons learned during the First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study (FNFNES), a community-based participatory research project implemented in eight Assembly of First Nations regions, which includes the entirety of Canada south of the 60th parallel. Methods FNFNES respected the First Nations principles of Ownership, Control, Access and Possession (OCAP®) (https://fnigc.ca/ocap). A random sampling strategy based on an ecosystem framework comprising 11 ecozones was adopted to collect representative nutritional and environmental health results for all First Nations adults living on-reserve south of the 60th parallel. Data collection occurred during the fall months from 2008 to 2016. Respective First Nations were involved in the planning and implementation of data collection for the five principal components: household interviews, tap water sampling for metals, surface water sampling for pharmaceuticals, hair sampling for mercury, and traditional food sampling for contaminants. Results A total of 6487 adults from 92 First Nations participated in the Study (participation rate 78%). A higher percentage of females (66%) participated than males (34%). The average age of males and females was similar (44 and 45 years, respectively). This study offers a novel body of coherent and regionally representative evidence on the human dimension of the ongoing environmental degradation affecting First Nations. Conclusion FNFNES serves as a good example of participatory research. We encourage public health professionals to develop policy and programs building on the participatory dimension of the research as well as on its results. The information collected by the FNFNES is also important for community empowerment, environmental stewardship and the general promotion of good health by and for First Nations peoples in Canada.
Hing Man Chan; Karen Fediuk; Malek Batal; Tonio Sadik; Constantine Tikhonov; Amy Ing; Lynn Barwin. The First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study (2008–2018)—rationale, design, methods and lessons learned. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2021, 112, 8 -19.
AMA StyleHing Man Chan, Karen Fediuk, Malek Batal, Tonio Sadik, Constantine Tikhonov, Amy Ing, Lynn Barwin. The First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study (2008–2018)—rationale, design, methods and lessons learned. Canadian Journal of Public Health. 2021; 112 (S1):8-19.
Chicago/Turabian StyleHing Man Chan; Karen Fediuk; Malek Batal; Tonio Sadik; Constantine Tikhonov; Amy Ing; Lynn Barwin. 2021. "The First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study (2008–2018)—rationale, design, methods and lessons learned." Canadian Journal of Public Health 112, no. S1: 8-19.
Rural Ecuadorians are experiencing a double burden of malnutrition, characterized by simultaneous nutrient inadequacies and excesses, alongside the social and environmental consequences of unsustainable agriculture. Agriculture can support farmer nutrition by providing income for market purchases and through the consumption of foods from own production. However, the nutritional contributions of these food acquisition strategies vary by context. We surveyed smallholder women farmers (n = 90) in Imbabura province to assess the dietary contributions of foods obtained through market purchase, own production, and social economy among farmers participating in agroecology—a sustainable farming movement—and neighboring reference farmers. We found that foods from farmers’ own production and the social economy were relatively nutrient-rich, while market foods were calorie-rich. Consumption of foods from own production was associated with better nutrient adequacy and moderation, whereas market food consumption was associated with a worse performance on both. Food acquisition patterns differed between farmer groups: agroecological farmers obtained 44%, 32%, and 23% of their calories from conventional markets, own production, and the social economy, respectively, while reference neighbors obtained 69%, 17%, and 13%, respectively. Our findings suggest that, in this region, farmer nutrition is better supported through the consumption of their own production than through market purchases, and sustainable farming initiatives such as agroecology may be leveraged for healthy diets.
Ana Deaconu; Peter Berti; Donald Cole; Geneviève Mercille; Malek Batal. Market Foods, Own Production, and the Social Economy: How Food Acquisition Sources Influence Nutrient Intake among Ecuadorian Farmers and the Role of Agroecology in Supporting Healthy Diets. Sustainability 2021, 13, 4410 .
AMA StyleAna Deaconu, Peter Berti, Donald Cole, Geneviève Mercille, Malek Batal. Market Foods, Own Production, and the Social Economy: How Food Acquisition Sources Influence Nutrient Intake among Ecuadorian Farmers and the Role of Agroecology in Supporting Healthy Diets. Sustainability. 2021; 13 (8):4410.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAna Deaconu; Peter Berti; Donald Cole; Geneviève Mercille; Malek Batal. 2021. "Market Foods, Own Production, and the Social Economy: How Food Acquisition Sources Influence Nutrient Intake among Ecuadorian Farmers and the Role of Agroecology in Supporting Healthy Diets." Sustainability 13, no. 8: 4410.
Agroecology has received much attention as a sustainable production strategy that may leverage agriculture-nutrition linkages to positively impact farmer nutritional health, but its potential has not been thoroughly established through empirical assessment. This mixed methods study uses survey data from Ecuador to assess how farmers' participation in agroecological associations may impact their diets. Our results suggest that agroecological farmers outperform reference farming neighbors on both nutrient adequacy (i.e. meeting key nutrient needs) and dietary moderation (i.e. avoiding dangerous excesses). Stronger nutrient adequacy is likely related to agroecological farmers' higher production diversity as well as the social and human capital developed within their networks, while stronger dietary moderation is likely related to their greater consumption of foods obtained through own-production and the social economy (e.g. barter). Dietary differences between agroecological and reference farmers occur despite similar incomes and other socioeconomic characteristics, and in fact, agroecological farmers achieve healthier diets while spending less money to purchase foods. Agroecology-based famers' networks may thus hold promise for integrating nutritional health priorities into sustainable food systems.
Ana Deaconu; Peter R. Berti; Donald C. Cole; Geneviève Mercille; Malek Batal. Agroecology and nutritional health: A comparison of agroecological farmers and their neighbors in the Ecuadorian highlands. Food Policy 2021, 101, 102034 .
AMA StyleAna Deaconu, Peter R. Berti, Donald C. Cole, Geneviève Mercille, Malek Batal. Agroecology and nutritional health: A comparison of agroecological farmers and their neighbors in the Ecuadorian highlands. Food Policy. 2021; 101 ():102034.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAna Deaconu; Peter R. Berti; Donald C. Cole; Geneviève Mercille; Malek Batal. 2021. "Agroecology and nutritional health: A comparison of agroecological farmers and their neighbors in the Ecuadorian highlands." Food Policy 101, no. : 102034.
Indigenous Peoples in high-income countries experience higher burdens of food insecurity, obesity, and diet-related health conditions compared to national averages. The objective of this systematic scoping review is to synthesize information from the published literature on the methods/approaches, findings, and scope for research and interventions on the retail food sector servicing Indigenous Peoples in high-income countries. A structured literature search in two major international databases yielded 139 relevant peer-reviewed articles from nine countries. Most research was conducted in Oceania and North America, and in rural and remote regions. Several convergent issues were identified across global regions including limited grocery store availability/access, heightened exposure to unhealthy food environments, inadequate market food supplies (i.e., high prices, limited availability, and poor quality), and common underlying structural factors including socio-economic inequality and colonialism. A list of actions that can modify the nature and structure of retailing systems to enhance the availability, accessibility, and quality of healthful foods is identified. While continuing to (re)align research with community priorities, international collaboration may foster enhanced opportunities to strengthen the evidence base for policy and practice and contribute to the amelioration of diet quality and health at the population level.
Tiff-Annie Kenny; Matthew Little; Tad Lemieux; P. Joshua Griffin; Sonia D. Wesche; Yoshitaka Ota; Malek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Melanie Lemire. The Retail Food Sector and Indigenous Peoples in High-Income Countries: A Systematic Scoping Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 8818 .
AMA StyleTiff-Annie Kenny, Matthew Little, Tad Lemieux, P. Joshua Griffin, Sonia D. Wesche, Yoshitaka Ota, Malek Batal, Hing Man Chan, Melanie Lemire. The Retail Food Sector and Indigenous Peoples in High-Income Countries: A Systematic Scoping Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (23):8818.
Chicago/Turabian StyleTiff-Annie Kenny; Matthew Little; Tad Lemieux; P. Joshua Griffin; Sonia D. Wesche; Yoshitaka Ota; Malek Batal; Hing Man Chan; Melanie Lemire. 2020. "The Retail Food Sector and Indigenous Peoples in High-Income Countries: A Systematic Scoping Review." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 23: 8818.
Modern food systems generate social inequalities in the access to healthy food, but some families maintain behaviors that provide an alternative to these systems. Agroecological consumers (ACs) and non-agroecological direct market consumers (DMCs) are key actors in alternative food systems. We assessed the characteristics of ACs and DMCs using data from a representative sample of households in Ibarra, Quito and Riobamba (n = 2914). We also deepened the exploration of motivations for adopting these practices through mini-ethnographies with families who were identified as ACs or DMCs (n = 15). We found motivations related to personal health problems, food quality (e.g., taste, freshness), and safety (e.g., avoiding pesticides) to be key. Other motivations were price and community solidarity with farmers. Barriers included inconvenience, lack of awareness, and insecurity of market location. Using Chi-square tests, we found differences between ACs and DMCs on place of residence, education, employment, health, and diet. Controlling for socioeconomic and health variables using logistic regressions, we found DMC dietary habits to be similar to the remainder of the study population, except that they were less likely to eat processed foods less frequently (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.6, 95% confidence interval 0.4–0.9). In contrast, ACs were more likely than the remainder of the study population to control their salt intake (3.2, 1.9–5.2) and have greater knowledge of nutrition labels (2.8, 1.7–4.6). They were more likely to eat traditional foods frequently (1.9, 1.1–3.3), fruit and vegetables daily (1.6, 1.0–2.8), and processed foods less frequently (2.7, 1.5–4.8). Hence, these two types of alternative food provisioning practices (AC and DMC) were adopted by different types of consumers, with heterogenous motivations and food consumption practices. These findings have implications for public health initiatives aiming to scale up the nutrition and ecological potential of alternative food systems.
Gabriel April-Lalonde; Sara Latorre; Myriam Paredes; María Hurtado; Fabián Muñoz; Ana Deaconu; Donald Cole; Malek Batal. Characteristics and Motivations of Consumers of Direct Purchasing Channels and the Perceived Barriers to Alternative Food Purchase: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Ecuadorian Andes. Sustainability 2020, 12, 6923 .
AMA StyleGabriel April-Lalonde, Sara Latorre, Myriam Paredes, María Hurtado, Fabián Muñoz, Ana Deaconu, Donald Cole, Malek Batal. Characteristics and Motivations of Consumers of Direct Purchasing Channels and the Perceived Barriers to Alternative Food Purchase: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Ecuadorian Andes. Sustainability. 2020; 12 (17):6923.
Chicago/Turabian StyleGabriel April-Lalonde; Sara Latorre; Myriam Paredes; María Hurtado; Fabián Muñoz; Ana Deaconu; Donald Cole; Malek Batal. 2020. "Characteristics and Motivations of Consumers of Direct Purchasing Channels and the Perceived Barriers to Alternative Food Purchase: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Ecuadorian Andes." Sustainability 12, no. 17: 6923.
In Canada, store-bought food constitutes the majority of First Nations (FN) people’s diets; however, their traditional foods (TF; wild fish, game, fowl, and plants) remains vital for their health. This study compares health indicators and diet quality among 265 Syilx Okanagan adults according to whether or not they reported eating TF during a 24-h dietary recall. Three methods assessed diet quality: nutrient intakes and adequacy, Healthy Eating Index (HEI-C), and contributions of ultra-processed products (UPP) to %energy using the NOVA classification. Fifty-nine participants (22%) reported eating TF during the dietary recall; TF contributed to 13% of their energy intake. There were no significant differences in weight status or prevalence of chronic disease between TF eaters and non-eaters. TF eaters had significantly higher intakes of protein; omega-3 fatty acids; dietary fibre; copper; magnesium; manganese; phosphorus; potassium; zinc; niacin; riboflavin; and vitamins B6, B12, D, and E than non-eaters. TF eaters also had significantly better diet quality based on the HEI-C and the %energy from UPP. Findings support that TF are critical contributors to the diet quality of FN individuals. Strength-based FN-led interventions, such as Indigenous food sovereignty initiatives, should be promoted to improve access to TF and to foster TF consumption.
Rosanne Blanchet; Noreen Willows; Suzanne Johnson; Okanagan Nation Salmon Reintroduction Initiatives; Malek Batal. Traditional Food, Health, and Diet Quality in Syilx Okanagan Adults in British Columbia, Canada. Nutrients 2020, 12, 927 .
AMA StyleRosanne Blanchet, Noreen Willows, Suzanne Johnson, Okanagan Nation Salmon Reintroduction Initiatives, Malek Batal. Traditional Food, Health, and Diet Quality in Syilx Okanagan Adults in British Columbia, Canada. Nutrients. 2020; 12 (4):927.
Chicago/Turabian StyleRosanne Blanchet; Noreen Willows; Suzanne Johnson; Okanagan Nation Salmon Reintroduction Initiatives; Malek Batal. 2020. "Traditional Food, Health, and Diet Quality in Syilx Okanagan Adults in British Columbia, Canada." Nutrients 12, no. 4: 927.
We examined the feasibility of linear programming (LP) to develop diets that were economical, included traditional (cultural, non-market) foods and met the dietary reference intakes (DRI) in a Canadian Indigenous population. Diet optimisation using LP is a mathematical technique that can develop food-based dietary guidelines for healthy eating in Indigenous populations where food insecurity, availability and cost are important considerations. It is a means of developing nutritionally optimal food combinations that are based on economical and culture-specific foods. Observed food consumption data were derived using 24-h food recalls from the First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study. The LP models were constructed to develop diets meeting DRI, cost and food constraints. Achieving the recommended food intake was not feasible in a model meeting all nutrient requirements. Models that met most nutrient requirements at reduced cost were designed for men and women, separately. In women, it was necessary to increase energy intake to meet most nutrient requirements. Nutrient requirements could not be met for fibre, linoleic and linolenic acids, vitamin D, Ca and K in both sexes, P in women, and Mg and vitamin A in men. Using LP to develop optimal diets for First Nations people, we found simultaneous achievement of all DRI was difficult, suggesting that supplementation might be necessary which goes against recommendations for individuals to meet their nutrient needs through healthy eating patterns. Additionally, to make diets feasible, programmes to reduce market food costs and to support First Nations people in traditional food harvesting are recommended.
Louise Johnson-Down; Noreen Willows; Tiff-Annie Kenny; Amy Ing; Karen Fediuk; Tonio Sadik; Hing Man Chan; Malek Batal. Optimisation modelling to improve the diets of First Nations individuals. Journal of Nutritional Science 2019, 8, e31 .
AMA StyleLouise Johnson-Down, Noreen Willows, Tiff-Annie Kenny, Amy Ing, Karen Fediuk, Tonio Sadik, Hing Man Chan, Malek Batal. Optimisation modelling to improve the diets of First Nations individuals. Journal of Nutritional Science. 2019; 8 ():e31.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLouise Johnson-Down; Noreen Willows; Tiff-Annie Kenny; Amy Ing; Karen Fediuk; Tonio Sadik; Hing Man Chan; Malek Batal. 2019. "Optimisation modelling to improve the diets of First Nations individuals." Journal of Nutritional Science 8, no. : e31.
Background Immigration status and unemployment may intersect on the health outcomes of men and women. This study aimed to identify intersections between unemployment and immigration in inflammatory, metabolic and nutritional blood markers and assess gender differences. Methods We used Canadian Health Measures Survey data on 2493 participants aged 18 to 65. Outcomes were chronic inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and fibrinogen), nutritional (albumin and hemoglobin), and metabolic blood markers (glycosylated hemoglobin, blood glucose, total and high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol). Multivariate linear regressions were used to assess the associations between each biomarker, unemployment and immigrant status, controlling for age, education, province, smoking, physical inactivity and body mass index and testing for multiplicative interactions between unemployment, immigrant status and gender. Results Unemployment was associated with higher inflammation (hsCRP and fibrinogen) in Canadian born men; Canadian born employed women showed higher hsCRP values compared with corresponding employed men. Unemployed immigrant women presented the highest values of hsCRP while employed immigrant women had the lowest hsCRP. Unemployment was associated with higher glucose; immigrant status was associated with higher glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin. Unemployed immigrants had significantly lower levels of hemoglobin and albumin than employed immigrants, and Canadian-born citizens regardless of their employment status. Some of these associations were attenuated after adjustment by body mass index, physical inactivity and smoking. Conclusion Blood biomarkers unveil intersections among unemployment, immigration and gender. This study provides evidence on biological pathways of unemployment on the likelihood of common chronic diseases, inflammation and potential malnutrition with some increased vulnerabilities in unemployed immigrants, and particularly in unemployed immigrant women.
Drissa Sia; Malgorzata Miszkurka; Malek Batal; Hélène Delisle; Maria Victoria Zunzunegui. Chronic disease and malnutrition biomarkers among unemployed immigrants and Canadian born adults. Archives of Public Health 2019, 77, 1 -10.
AMA StyleDrissa Sia, Malgorzata Miszkurka, Malek Batal, Hélène Delisle, Maria Victoria Zunzunegui. Chronic disease and malnutrition biomarkers among unemployed immigrants and Canadian born adults. Archives of Public Health. 2019; 77 (1):1-10.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDrissa Sia; Malgorzata Miszkurka; Malek Batal; Hélène Delisle; Maria Victoria Zunzunegui. 2019. "Chronic disease and malnutrition biomarkers among unemployed immigrants and Canadian born adults." Archives of Public Health 77, no. 1: 1-10.
Indigenous populations in Canada are heavily affected by the burden of obesity, and certain communities, such as First Nations on reserve, are not included in the sampling framework of large national health surveys. A scoping review of ever published original research reporting obesity rates (body mass index ≥ 30), among adult Indigenous peoples in Canada, was conducted to identify studies that help close the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) data gap for obesity prevalence in Indigenous populations in Canada and to make comparisons based on ethnicity, sex, time, and geography. First Nations on reserve with self-reported height and weight had higher rates of obesity (30%–51%) than First Nations off reserve (21%–42%) and non-Indigenous populations (12%–31%) in their respective province or territory, with the exception of Alberta, where rates in First Nations on reserve (30% and 36%) were lower or similar to those reported in First Nations off reserve (38%). First Nations on reserve with predominantly measured height and weight (42%–66%) had higher rates of obesity compared to Inuit in Quebec (28%), Nunavut (33%), and Newfoundland and Labrador (41%), while the rates were similar to those in Inuit in Northwest Territories (49%). Obesity in these large studies conducted among Inuit was based solely on measured height and weight. Studies in First Nations and Inuit alike showed higher prevalence of obesity in women, as well as an increase with time. No recent studies measured the obesity rates for First Nations in Yukon and Northwest Territories and for Métis living in settlements of Northern Alberta. Researchers are encouraged to conduct total diet studies in these regions, and to use existing data to analyze the associations between obesity, road access, latitude, food environment, and traditional food intake, to further inform community planning and development.
Malek Batal; Stéphane DeCelles. A Scoping Review of Obesity among Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Journal of Obesity 2019, 2019, 1 -20.
AMA StyleMalek Batal, Stéphane DeCelles. A Scoping Review of Obesity among Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Journal of Obesity. 2019; 2019 ():1-20.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMalek Batal; Stéphane DeCelles. 2019. "A Scoping Review of Obesity among Indigenous Peoples in Canada." Journal of Obesity 2019, no. : 1-20.
Agroecology is increasingly recognized as a sustainable production strategy that is appropriate for the rural poor. Meanwhile, agricultural initiatives have received much attention for their role in improving farmer nutrition, and three key pathways between agriculture and nutrition include consumption of own production, income and women's empowerment. In this study based in Ecuador's Imbabura province, we used qualitative methods to explore the practices of agroecological farmers with respect to these three key pathways. Results demonstrate the heterogeneity of lived experiences through which agroecology increases agricultural diversity and builds social and human capital to improve nutrition. We further identify barter as an under-explored means to nutrition outcomes, and we discuss the role of the complex rationales that mediate farmers' performance on agriculture-for-nutrition pathways. Finally, our results illustrate agroecology's potential to spread nutrition-promoting practices through endogenous farmers' networks.
Ana Deaconu; Geneviève Mercille; Malek Batal. The Agroecological Farmer’s Pathways from Agriculture to Nutrition: A Practice-Based Case from Ecuador’s Highlands. Ecology of Food and Nutrition 2019, 58, 142 -165.
AMA StyleAna Deaconu, Geneviève Mercille, Malek Batal. The Agroecological Farmer’s Pathways from Agriculture to Nutrition: A Practice-Based Case from Ecuador’s Highlands. Ecology of Food and Nutrition. 2019; 58 (2):142-165.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAna Deaconu; Geneviève Mercille; Malek Batal. 2019. "The Agroecological Farmer’s Pathways from Agriculture to Nutrition: A Practice-Based Case from Ecuador’s Highlands." Ecology of Food and Nutrition 58, no. 2: 142-165.
The Nutrition-Friendly School Initiative was developed in 2006 to counter the double burden of malnutrition and implemented on a pilot basis in primary schools in Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso) in 2009. A baseline study was conducted in intervention and control schools and repeated in 2014 to assess the impact. This paper reports on anthropometric and biochemical data in the final and baseline surveys. Both studies were conducted in the fifth grade classes of the same primary schools in Ouagadougou. Six intervention schools had been selected and matched at baseline with six control schools. The total sample consisted of 699 and 651 pupils in 2009 and 2014, respectively. Anthropometric and hemoglobin measurements were performed on all children, whereas serum retinol was measured in a random subsample to assess Vitamin A Deficiency (VAD). Independent t-tests and chi-squared tests were used for comparison of means and proportions, respectively, and multiple logistic regressions were conducted to examine associations between nutritional parameters and school characteristics. Final rates of anaemia and VAD were 32.6% and 26.1%, respectively, down from 40.4% and 38.7% at baseline. The final prevalence rate of stunting was 8.1%, thinness was 8.7% and overweight/obesity was 4.4%. Thinness declined significantly in 2014 compared to 2009, but there was no change in the rate of stunting even though the rate of overweight/obesity showed an upward trend. When comparing intervention with control schoolchildren, the only significant differences found in the final survey were less thinness and less anaemia in the intervention children. However, the prevalence of anaemia was also significantly lower in the intervention group at baseline. Our results point to a significant improvement in the nutritional status of schoolchildren in Ouagadougou and suggest a positive, although modest, role for the Nutrition-Friendly School Initiative in reducing thinness, but not overweight.
Christelle Elkhouri Edde; Helene Delisle; Charles Dabone; Malek Batal. Impact of the Nutrition-Friendly School Initiative: analysis of anthropometric and biochemical data among school-aged children in Ouagadougou. Global Health Promotion 2019, 27, 26 -34.
AMA StyleChristelle Elkhouri Edde, Helene Delisle, Charles Dabone, Malek Batal. Impact of the Nutrition-Friendly School Initiative: analysis of anthropometric and biochemical data among school-aged children in Ouagadougou. Global Health Promotion. 2019; 27 (2):26-34.
Chicago/Turabian StyleChristelle Elkhouri Edde; Helene Delisle; Charles Dabone; Malek Batal. 2019. "Impact of the Nutrition-Friendly School Initiative: analysis of anthropometric and biochemical data among school-aged children in Ouagadougou." Global Health Promotion 27, no. 2: 26-34.