Semester of Graduation
May 2025
Degree
Master of Science (MS)
Department
School of Nutrition and Food Sciences
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
Louisiana's rich Cajun/Creole dietary traditions have not been studied concerning prenatal nutrition as per the 2020-2025 USDA Dietary Guidelines. The traditional Cajun diet, characterized by rice, gravy, braised meat, smothered seafood, and seasonal vegetables, may predispose pregnant women to health risks such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes, leading to preterm birth and maternal complications. This study aims to assess if Cajun/Creole pregnant women meet prenatal dietary guidelines and identify nutritional areas of concern. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using quota sampling from OGYN offices, midwifery practices, and pregnancy centers in St. Landry and Lafayette Parishes. The study included 371 pregnant women who identified as Cajun or Creole. During their appointments, participants completed a food frequency questionnaire to evaluate culturally significant dietary choices. The questionnaire consisted of fourteen items adapted from validated food frequency questionnaires, focusing on foods rich in vitamin D, choline, DHA, and glycine. A Mann-Whitney U test assessed the relationship between food choices and nutrient recommendations. Results indicated that the median weekly intake of vitamin D (395.9 IUs) and choline (497.6mg) was significantly lower than the USDA guidelines (2800s IUs and 3150 mg, respectively, per week), with p-values
Date
4-22-2025
Recommended Citation
Staab, Breanna, "Determining if Cajun/Creole Pregnant Women are Meeting Prenatal Dietary Guidelines While Consuming the Traditional Cajun Diet" (2025). LSU Master's Theses. 6116.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_theses/6116
Committee Chair
Erin McKinley