Korean Journal of Community Nutrition

[English]
Food and nutrient intake in pregnant women with singletons or multiples and post-delivery changes in intake in Korea: an observational study: Cheawon Lee, Dahyeon Kim, Yoon Ha Kim, Myeong Gyun Choi, Jong Woon Kim, Clara Yongjoo Park; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(1):1-15. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00325

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Objectives
Nutrient intake during pregnancy and lactation is crucial for the health of both mother and offspring. Diet and nutrient metabolism potentially vary according to ethnicity and fetal number; nevertheless, recent studies validating this are inadequate. Furthermore, few studies have tracked changes in intake after delivery. We compared the food and nutrient intakes between pregnant women in Korea carrying singletons and multiples during late pregnancy and assessed their changes through postpartum.
Methods
Ninety-eight pregnant women were recruited from Chonnam National University Hospital between January 2019 and December 2023, and 48 responded to follow-up. Third trimester and postpartum intake were assessed via food frequency questionnaires and supplement questionnaires. Student’s t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, chi-square test, paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test was performed and adjustments were made for covariates.
Results
Nutrient intake was generally adequate relative to the Dietary Reference Intakes for Koreans, with no differences between singleton- and multiple-pregnancy women. Sixty-six of 98 (67%) pregnant women consumed meat, fish, vegetables, and fruit daily. Dairy intake was low, while the mean iron intake during pregnancy reached 54.2 ± 34.0 mg/d, exceeding the tolerable upper intake level, mainly owing to supplements. Postpartum fruit and vitamin C intake decreased, with no significant differences between breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding women.
Conclusion
Dietary intake did not significantly differ between Korean singleton- and multiple-pregnancy women. Dairy intake was low and iron intake was excessive. Fruit intake decreased after delivery; however, difference in dietary intake according to breastfeeding status was minimal. Nutritional education may be necessary to promote a balanced diet in pregnant and postpartum women. Trial Registration: Clinical Research Information Service Identifier KCT0005118.

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[English]
Nutrition quotient for preschoolers and key impacting factors in Korea: a cross-sectional study on food literacy, social support, and the food environment of primary caregivers: Danbi Gwon, Ji-Yun Hwang, Jieun Oh; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(1):16-26. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00311

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Objectives
This study evaluated the nutrition quotient for preschoolers (NQ-P) and analyzed the impact of key factors, such as caregivers’ food literacy, social support, and food environment, on the eating habits of preschool children in Korea. This study also sought to provide foundational data for developing tailored nutrition education programs by identifying the nutrition education needs of caregivers.
Methods
This study was conducted among caregivers of preschool children (aged 0–6 years) using an online self-administered survey conducted from August 22 to August 28, 2023. A total of 1,116 survey responses were analyzed. This study assessed children’s NQ-P score, caregivers’ food literacy, social support, food environment, and nutritional education needs. Data were analyzed using SPSS 29.0 (IBM Co.).
Results
The average NQ-P score for preschool children was 52, showing a tendency for the balance score to decrease and the moderation score to increase with age. Children from rural and low-income areas exhibited significantly lower NQ-P scores. Caregivers’ food literacy was higher in urban and higher-income groups. Multiple regression analysis revealed that social support, food literacy, income, and food environment significantly affected children's NQ-P scores. The effectiveness of nutrition education varied based on the income level, with nutrition education on healthy eating being the most preferred topic for preschool children.
Conclusion
This study confirmed that caregivers’ food literacy and social support significantly affected preschool children’s nutritional status. This suggests a need for tailored nutritional education and dietary support policies, particularly for low-income and rural populations.

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[English]
Understanding the charactersitics and types of single-person households based on food purchase frequencies in Korea: a cross-sectional study using the 2023 Consumer Behavior Survey for Foods: So-Yun Kim, Youngmin Nam, Jong-Youn Rha, Haerang Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(1):27-39. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00031

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Objectives
This study investigated the differences in food purchase frequency among single-person households by gender and age group and explored the characteristics of single-person household groups according to their food purchase patterns.
Methods
Utilizing data from the 2023 Consumer Behavior Survey for Foods conducted by the Korea Rural Economic Institute, this study examined food purchase frequencies among 966 single-person households. Data were analyzed using Rao-Scott chi-square tests, ANCOVA, ANOVA, and K-modes hierarchical cluster analysis.
Results
Significant differences were observed in the food purchase frequencies of single-person households for fresh and convenient food. Women displayed higher purchase frequencies for fish, vegetables, and fruits, whereas men showed higher purchase frequencies for convenient foods (P < 0.005). Single-person households aged 39 years and younger exhibited lower purchase frequencies for vegetables (P < 0.005) and fish (P < 0.001) and substantially higher frequencies of convenient food purchases (P < 0.001). Additionally, this study identified three distinct single-person household groups based on food purchase pattern: the “nutrition-conscious” group, which exhibited high purchase frequency for fresh foods; the “convenience-seeking” group, which showed high purchase frequency for all types of convenient foods; and the “passive food consumer” group, which displayed relatively low purchase frequency for both fresh foods and convenient foods. The socio-demographic characteristics of single-person households differed significantly across these three groups, with the “passive food consumer” group and “convenience-seeking” group exhibiting lower healthy eating competency (MN(nutrition-conscious group) = 3.68, MP(passive-food-consumer group) = 3.40, MC(convenience-seeking group) = 3.52, P < 0.001), safe eating competency (MN = 3.87, MP = 3.57, MC = 3.77, P < 0.001), and satisfaction (MN = 3.36, MP = 3.23, MC = 3.25, P = 0.04) than the “nutrition-conscious” group.
Conclusion
This study underscores the need for targeted nutrition programs to address the unique needs of single-person households depending on their characteristics. Specifically, this study highlights the importance of targeted interventions for “convenience-seeking” and “passive food consumer” to promote dietary competency and encourage healthy dietary behavior.

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[English]
Effects of a multi-component program based on partially hydrolyzed guar gum (Sunfiber^®) on glycemic control in South Korea: a single-arm, pre-post comparison pilot clinical trial: Hyoung Su Park, A-Hyun Jeong, Hyejung Hong, Hana Jang, Hye-Jin Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(1):40-52. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00276

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Objectives
The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a multi-component program, including partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG, Sunfiber®) supplementation, on glycemic control, gut health, and nutritional status to support diabetes prevention and management among Korean adults.
Methods
A single-arm trial was conducted with 29 adults (aged 20-55 years) with fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≥ 100 mg/dL. Over a six-week period, participants engaged in a multi-component program that incorporated the supplementation of PHGG (Sunfiber®, 12.5 g/day), weekly nutritional coaching, and the use of continuous glucose monitoring devices. The program’s effectiveness was evaluated by measuring FPG and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels through blood tests conducted before and after the intervention. Improvements in gut health were gauged using the Korean Gut Quotient Measurement Scales, while enhancements in nutritional status were assessed using the Nutrition Quotient (NQ) and surveys that evaluated improvements in gut health and nutritional status.
Results
Participants’ average age was 43.89 years, with approximately 80% being male. Most participants (about 75%) were classified as overweight or obese. After six-weeks, 17 participants who adhered closely to the program (meeting certification criteria) exhibited significant reductions in key blood glucose markers. FPG levels decreased from 113.06 ± 23.16 mg/dL to 106.24 ± 16.33 mg/dL (P < 0.05), and HbA1c levels decreased from 6.08% ± 0.81% to 5.87% ± 0.53% (P < 0.05). The NQ evaluation revealed significant increases in comprehensive nutrition scores, and in the balance and practice domain scores for all participants (P < 0.05). Furthermore, in the gut health survey, approximately 82.1% of all participants reported experiencing positive changes.
Conclusion
Among adults with elevated FPG levels, a multi-component intervention program that included PHGG (Sunfiber®) supplementation, structured dietary management, and the use of health-monitoring devices showed significant benefits in improving glycemic control, overall nutritional status, and gut health. Trial Registration: Clinical Research Information Service Identifier: KCT0010049.

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[Korean]
Application of a living lab model to an evidence-based reduced-sodium healthy eating practice program in Korea: a pre-post study: Jung-Hyun Kim, Eugene Shim, Min Sook Kyung, Sooyoun Kwon, Hyoung Su Park, Jae-Heon Kang; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(1):53-63. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00346

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Objectives
To apply a healthy dietary program with reduced sodium intake, developed using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), focusing on the sodium intake level and eating patterns.
Methods
The program was implemented using a living lab model, an open innovation ecosystem for user-centered problem-solving. Analysis of the KNHANES data revealed that older age groups had a low energy intake but a high sodium intake, particularly among those who frequently dined out. The program was designed to improve sodium-reduction literacy and enhance practical competency. Over four weeks, 40 participants tracked their dietary intake and worked with a clinical nutritionist through a process of diagnosis, experience, improvement, and expansion. A self-administered survey was conducted before and after the program to assess effectiveness.
Results
Participants were four teenagers (10%), 26 in their twenties (65%), and 10 aged ≥ 30 years (25%), with eight males (20%) and 32 females (80%). Post-program analysis showed significant improvements in sodium-related nutrition knowledge (P < 0.01), with increased agreement on adopting low-sodium intake practices (e.g., interest in sodium content, choosing lower-sodium foods). Nutrient intake analysis showed a decrease in energy, carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins (P < 0.001), with sodium intake decreasing from 3,382.37 mg/d to 2,119.05 mg/d (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
The community-based, living lab model for the sodium-reduction program effectively improved participant sodium-reduction literacy and practical competency, suggesting that step-by-step, autonomous learning, can reduce sodium intake and promote healthier eating habits.

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[Korean]
Development and applicability evaluation of a nutrition education program for residents and users of disability social welfare facilities in Korea: a mixed-methods study: Jin-kyung Kim, Kyoung-min Lee, Min-sun Jeon; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(1):64-74. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2025.00017

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Objectives
This study aimed to develop a nutrition education program based on social cognitive theory to promote the health of individuals using facilities for people with disabilities. It also sought to evaluate the applicability of the educational materials through assessments by counselors at the Social Welfare Food Service Management Support Center.
Methods
A group of six experts developed the program based on a needs assessment of nutrition education in facilities for individuals with disabilities. Applicability was evaluated through an online survey of 26 counselors from Social Welfare Food Service Management Support Centers nationwide in July 2023, and the results were analyzed.
Results
The nutrition education program includes a basic course on personal hygiene, dining etiquette, picky eating prevention, and obesity management. The advanced course covers dietary management for chronic diseases, such as meal planning for hypertension, diabetes management, and dietary principles for dysphagia. Additionally, lecture PPTs, individual activity sheets, and experiential teaching aids were developed. Applicability evaluations showed high scores, with the teaching-learning plan and PPT averaging 4.15 and the experiential teaching aids scoring 4.17, all above 4.0.
Conclusion
This study developed a nutrition education program for individuals with disabilities and assessed its applicability and usability. Implementing this program in disability welfare institutions could enhance health promotion and improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

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[Korean]
Analysis of pork consumption attribute factors by consumer lifestyle in Korea: a cross-sectional study: Jounghee Lee, Juhyun Lee, Wookyoung Kim; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(1):75-88. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00332

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Objectives
This study aims to identify and analyze how different South Korean lifestyles impact attitudes towards pork consumption.
Methods
We implemented a cross-sectional survey targeting 705 adult consumers in South Korea using hierarchical and K-means cluster analyses. Respondents were classified into three relevant lifestyles: (1) domestic preference, (2) price-sensitive, and (3) quality-experience-oriented. The importance-performance analysis was employed to evaluate discrepancies between how they rated pork consumption using factors of “importance” and “satisfaction”. We employed Borich’s needs assessment and the Locus for Focus model to prioritize management areas.
Results
The research findings highlight that unpleasant odor/smell (Q7) and hygiene (Q1) were common key areas for management across all consumer groups, emphasizing their importance in enhancing pork consumption satisfaction. Among the groups, the domestic preference group showed high importance-performance discrepancies in attributes like expiry date (D2), suggesting a need for strengthened trust in domestic pork distribution and information transparency. The price-sensitive group prioritized economic factors, with fat thickness (Q8) identified as an essential management area. The quality-experience-oriented group emphasized sensory qualities such as juiciness (Q6) and meat color (Q5), with off-flavors (Q7) displaying the largest discrepancy. These results show the significant role of sensory attributes in consumer satisfaction.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated the multidimensional nature of pork consumption behavior, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies across consumer groups. Managing hygiene (Q1) and reducing off-flavors (Q7) are critical for all segments, while group-specific strategies include managing sensory quality for the quality-experience-oriented group, providing product information (D2) to increase trust for the domestic preference group, and emphasizing value for money for the price-sensitive group.

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[Korean]
Analysis of the relationship between sugar intake and cancer prevalence: a cross-sectional study using the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Hye-Ryun Kim, Soo-Kyung Lee; Korean J Community Nutr 2025;30(1):89-102. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5720/kjcn.2024.00339

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Objectives
This study aimed to analyze the association between sugar intake and cancer risk among Korean adults aged 19 years and older.
Methods
A total of 13,016 adults aged 19 years and older who participated in the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2019 to 2021 were included. Sugar intake was assessed in terms of both absolute intake and sugar energy rate. Sugar intake was divided into quartiles, while sugar energy rate was categorized into three groups (< 10%, 10%–20%, > 20%) based on the 2020 Dietary Reference Intakes for Koreans and into two groups (< 10%, ≥ 10%) based on WHO recommendations. Cancer prevalence was determined using cancer-related survey questions. The association between sugar intake and cancer prevalence was analyzed by sex and cancer type using logistic regression. All statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS statistics 29.0 (IBM Co.).
Results
From 2019 to 2021, sugar intake significantly declined with age in both men and women (P for trend < 0.001), with the highest intake observed in the 19–29 age group (61.38 g). Men consumed significantly more sugar than women across all age groups except for the 50–64 and 65–74 groups (P < 0.05). However, the sugar energy rate was significantly higher in women than in men (P < 0.05). While the association between sugar intake and cancer prevalence varied across regression models and cancer types, cervical cancer consistently showed a significant association with sugar intake (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
The association between sugar energy rate and the prevalence of premenopausal cervical cancer was consistent and significant. Given that women had a higher sugar energy rate than men, the relationship between sugar intake and cancer prevalence in women warrants further investigation. Longitudinal studies with more detailed sugar intake assessments are needed.

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