February 10, 2014
Wahine Maori sought for body mass study
Massey University researchers want to unlock the mysteries of Maori women’s body size.
They are looking for almost 700 women including 225 Maori for the international study into whether women with different body fat profiles also have different risk levels for chronic disease.
Principal investigator Rozanne Kruger from the Institute of Food, Nutrition and Human Health in Albany says Maori and Pacific Island women don’t necessarily fit the confines indicated by BMI or body mass index.
She says a pilot study in 2009 found that while some women appear to be lean, they are actually carrying hidden fat in their bodies which may put them at risk for developing chronic diseases.
The study will look at what role diet, taste and physical activity patterns play in determining body fat profiles.
Copyright © 2014, UMA Broadcasting Ltd