Intakes of Food and Nutrients According to Sa-Sang Constitution

ABSTRACT

Sa-Sang, one of the Korean traditional medicines, classifies people's constitution into 4 types, which are referred to as Tae-Yang-In, Tae-Eum-In, So-Yang-In and So-Eum-In. The purpose of this study was to examine demographic and dietary factors and to test any significant differences between Sa-Sang constitution and related factors. The participants were 483 college students and the data of 428 students were finally analyzed. Constitution was determined identically through both the questionnaire on Sa-Sang constitution and an inquiry by a Korean traditional medical doctor. Tae-Eum-In showed statistically significant higher BMI and higher smoking frequency. Tae-Eum-In also had significantly higher intakes in iron, potassium, sodium, vitamin B1, niacin, beta-carotene and vitamin E. So-Eum-In had significantly lower intakes in protein, phosphorous, and folate. From this study, we could expect to get some scientific, objective and accurate diet information on the types of constitution. Considering the fact that most chronic degenerative diseases could be developed by any lifestyle factors, it is necessary to conduct educational programs about lifestyles including the dietary habit for maintaining good health. Therefore, it will be better to continue a long-term follow-up study on any chronic degenerative disease based on the types of Sa-Sang constitution in the future.