Observations regarding Consumption of Peruvian Native Grains (quinoa, Amaranth and Kañiwa), Weight Status, and Perceptions of Potential Risk Factors, Warning Signs and Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes among Peruvian Adults: a Case Study

Title of document: OBSERVATIONS REGARDING CONSUMPTION OF PERUVIAN NATIVE GRAINS (QUINOA, AMARANTH AND KAÑIWA), WEIGHT STATUS, AND PERCEPTIONS OF POTENTIAL RISK FACTORS, WARNING SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF TYPE 2 DIABETES AMONG PERUVIAN ADULTS: A CASE STUDY Katherine A Sanchez, Master of Science, 2012 Directed by: Retired Associate Professor and Extension Specialist Dr. Mark A Kantor, Nutrition and Food Sciences Department Wheat flour-based foods and rice have replaced native cereals in the diets of many urbanliving Peruvians. Urban areas have also seen increases in overweight, obesity, and type 2 diabetes mellitus prevalence in recent years. The focus of this research is to describe observations regarding consumption of quinoa, amaranth and kañiwa cereals; weight status; and self-described experiences of potential risk factors and warning signs for, and symptoms that may represent complications of, type 2 diabetes mellitus in Peruvian adults living in the city of Arequipa. A survey instrument was developed and administered to 110 subjects (22 diabetics, 88 non-diabetics), middle-aged and over. Participants with normal BMIs consumed quinoa, amaranth, and kaniwa more frequently than overweight or obese participants. Diabetics reported more frequent consumption of Andean cereals, particularly amaranth, and less frequent consumption of white flour than non-diabetics. Most participants reported eating a diet high in carbohydrates and leading a sedentary lifestyle. OBSERVATIONS REGARDING CONSUMPTION OF PERUVIAN NATIVE GRAINS (QUINOA, AMARANTH AND KAÑIWA), WEIGHT STATUS, AND PERCEPTIONS OF POTENTIAL RISK FACTORS, WARNING SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF TYPE 2 DIABETES AMONG PERUVIAN ADULTS: A CASE STUDY