Comparison of Dietary Habits, Physical Activity and Body Size among Chinese in North America and China

Background Chinese in North America have higher rates of many chronic diseases than do Chinese in Asia. However, there is a lack of data among comparisons of the environmental and lifestyle factors for Chinese in China and Chinese residing in North America. Methods We examined self-reported dietary nutrient intakes, physical activity patterns and body mass index of 2488 healthy Chinese men and women residing in North America (US and Canada) and in the People's Republic of China. Results On average, Chinese in China consumed more calories (males 2904 kcal in China, versus 2201 kcal in North America; females 2317 Kcal in China, versus 1795 Kcal In North America and more carbohydrate, but less fat (males 72.2 g in China versus 84.5 g in North America, females 56.6 g in China versus 70.8 g in North America), protein, vitamin A, beta-carotene and vitamin C than did Chinese in North America Per cent calories from fat was 35% for Chinese in North America and 22% for Chinese in China. In contrast, the per cent of calories from carbohydrates was 62–68% in China and 48% in North America. Chinese in China reported spending more time in vigorous activity, sleeping and walking but less hours in sitting than Chinese in North America. Chinese in China weighed less and were leaner than North American Chinese. Conclusions These differences in nutrient intakes, physical activity and body size of Chinese living on two different continents suggest possible explanations for observed differences in chronic disease rates in the two populations.