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7012225 
Journal Article 
Energy and nutrient intake of Tongan adults estimated by 24-hour recall: the importance of local food items 
Konishi, S; Watanabe, C; Umezaki, M; Ohtsuka, R; , 
2011 
Yes 
Ecology of Food and Nutrition
ISSN: 0367-0244
EISSN: 1543-5237 
TAYLOR & FRANCIS INC 
PHILADELPHIA 
50 
4 
337-350 
English 
21888600 
WOS:000299697400003 
Tongan adults show one of the highest prevalences of obesity in the world. The present study aims to estimate Tongans' energy and nutrient intakes and food sources using a 24-hour recall survey for 14 days targeting 15 men and 19 women. The mean (SD) daily energy intake was 12.2 (2.3) MJ for men and 10.6 (2.2) MJ for women. Imported foods accounted for about half of their energy and macronutrient intakes, but for much less of their micronutrients. Some local food items, specifically pork, kava, and sea hare, contributed significantly to their vitamin, Fe, and Ca intakes, respectively. These findings suggest that heavy reliance on imported foods can lead not only to a high prevalence of obesity, but also to micronutrient deficiencies.