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ARS Home » Plains Area » Houston, Texas » Children's Nutrition Research Center » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #315985
Title: Tree nut consumption is associated with better nutrient adequacy and diet quality in adults: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-2010

Author
item O'NEIL, CAROL - LSU Agcenter
item NICKLAS, THERESA - Children'S Nutrition Research Center (CNRC)
item FULGONI III, VICTOR - Nutrition Impact, Llc

Submitted to: Nutrients
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 1/7/2015
Publication Date: 1/15/2015
Citation: O'Neil, C.E., Nicklas, T.A., Fulgoni III, V.L. 2015. Tree nut consumption is associated with better nutrient adequacy and diet quality in adults: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-2010. Nutrients. 7:595-607.

Interpretive Summary: Nutrient adequacy of tree nut consumers has not been examined. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005–2010 data were used to assess the association of tree nut consumption by adults 19+ years with nutrient adequacy and diet quality. Tree nut consumption was associated with better nutrient adequacy and diet quality than those seen among non-consumers. Tree nut consumption should be encouraged by health professionals, including registered dietitians, as an overall part of a total diet. Nutrition education programs that increase awareness and consumption of tree nuts should be designed and delivered. Nutrition education programs should encourage consumption of tree nuts without the addition of excess sodium.

Technical Abstract: Nutrient adequacy of tree nut consumers has not been examined. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005–2010 data were used to assess the association of tree nut consumption by adults 19+ years with nutrient adequacy and diet quality. Covariate adjusted usual intake was determined using two 24-hour dietary recalls and the National Cancer Institute method. Percentages of the consumption groups below the Estimated Average Requirement or above the Adequate Intake were determined. Diet quality was determined using the Healthy Eating Index-2005 score. sual intake data showed consumers of tree nuts had a lower percentage of the population below the Estimated Average Requirement for vitamins A, E and C; folate; calcium; iron; magnesium; and zinc. Tree nut consumers had a higher percentage of the population above the Adequate Intake for fiber and potassium. Healthy Eating Index-2005 total score was higher in tree nut consumers than non-consumers. Health professionals should encourage the use of tree nuts as part of a dietary approach to healthy eating.