Dietary habits of the Somali population in Liverpool, with respect to foods containing calcium and vitamin D: a cause for concern?

Background A large percentage of Liverpool Somalis have vitamin D deficiency and low calcium excretion. The dietary habits of Liverpool Somalis were investigated with respect to food items containing calcium and vitamin D.

Methods A questionnaire, administered by a Somali field worker, assessed the intake of food of 60 adult (45 females and 15 males; mean age 42 years) and 10 child (seven females and three males; mean age 10 years) Somali volunteers. Questions concerned personal details, health (bone and muscle problems) and dietary habits including the frequency of consumption of food items containing substantial amounts of calcium and vitamin D.

Results Most subjects reported bone and muscle pain. Eating habits reflected traditional customs. Foods containing substantial amounts of calcium and vitamin D were consumed infrequently. Milk was only consumed in tea. Those self-reporting bone pain consumed eggs, cheese and beans rarely.

Conclusion The food choices of these individuals with regard to bone health is a cause for concern and indicates a likelihood of low calcium and vitamin D intake.