Tag: Samoan diet

According to a 2016 study, a genetic variant associated with increased body mass index (BMI) is carried by nearly half of all Samoans, influencing more efficient fat storage. However, a complex mix of genetics, traditional diet, lifestyle shifts, and cultural norms combine to contribute to the large and powerful physiques often seen in Samoan people.

According to the World Bank, in 2018, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Samoa, largely attributed to dietary changes, was among the highest in the world, with NCDs causing 70% of deaths. This highlights the significant health impact of the evolving Samoan diet.

According to a 2017 study, Samoans are undergoing a nutritional transition, with a shift away from traditional foods. This major dietary change fundamentally alters what is the Samoan diet, moving from reliance on local agricultural staples to imported, processed foods.

According to a 2018 study, the average per capita daily intake of calories in Samoa was identified to be approximately 3,509 kcal (per adult male equivalent), but this figure masks significant regional and individual differences. Factors like income, location, and the ongoing nutrition transition have dramatically reshaped how many calories Samoans eat today compared to past generations.