Date Available

5-22-2012

Year of Publication

2012

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Document Type

Master's Thesis

College

Agriculture

Department/School/Program

Nutrition and Food Science

First Advisor

Dr. Kwaku Addo

Abstract

Obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and poor dietary habits are major healthcare problems in the United States. These issues are especially prevalent in the state of Kentucky and among at-risk populations such as Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) participants. Studies have found that whole grains play a role in weight maintenance, protection against type 2 diabetes, and lowering cholesterol. Interventions aimed at improving WIC participant dietary behavior and intake has been successful as well. This study assessed Kentucky WIC participants’ knowledge of the benefits of consuming grains, attitudes and beliefs regarding food purchasing and grains, and identified grains consumed in a two-week period. A survey, created with the input of Registered Dietitians and WIC staff, examined these factors. Results from the survey found that WIC participants might benefit from education on: purchasing nutrient-dense foods (especially whole grains), the nutrition facts panel, types of grains, nutrients such as calories, fat, sugar, and fiber, serving sizes, and how to get children to eat whole grains.

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