Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the effects of fish-based food consumption on blood pressure, uric acid levels, and blood cholesterol in the Natuna community. The Natuna community's diet, which is rich in fish-based foods, offers a unique opportunity to investigate the health impacts of such a diet. All the participants reported consuming fish at least five times per week. Their blood pressure, uric acid levels, and blood cholesterol were measured at a single point in time. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess the significance of the observed health indicators. The study examined participants aged 20 to 73, with an average age of 43, who consumed fish at least five times a week. Blood pressure results showed that most participants (21 individuals) had optimal levels, while others had normal to varying degrees of hypertension. Uric acid measurements indicated that most men had normal levels, though 9 had elevated levels, and a significant number of women (27 individuals) had higher-than-normal levels, suggesting a possible risk of elevated uric acid, potentially due to the purine content in certain types of fish. Cholesterol analysis revealed that the majority (30 individuals) had optimal cholesterol levels, with fewer individuals having intermediate (17 individuals) or high cholesterol (9 individuals). In summary, although a diet rich in fish seems to promote heart health, careful management may be necessary to prevent increased uric acid levels. The findings in this study will contribute to informed decision-making, targeted interventions, and holistic approaches to improving public health and nutrition, and support the long-term wellbeing of the Natuna community and potentially other seafood-dependent populations, while also preserving the cultural and nutritional value of their traditional way of life.
Introduction
1.1 Background
The Natuna community, located in the Natuna Archipelago of Indonesia, has a traditional diet that is heavily centered around seafood and marine resources. Fish and other seafood are deeply woven into the cultural identity and traditions of the Natuna people. For centuries, the Natuna have relied on the bounty of the surrounding seas as a primary source of nutrition, because of its limited agricultural potential. Â Some of the most commonly consumed fish in the Natuna diet include tuna, mackerel, snapper, grouper, and various reef fish. The Natuna people have developed a rich variation of techniques for preserving and preparing their seafood catch. Dried and salted fish are particularly important staple foods, as the drying and salting processes allow for long-term storage of the perishable catch. In addition to these preservation techniques, the Natuna also have traditional recipes and dishes that showcase their seafood bounty. These may include smoked, grilled, steamed, or simmered fish dishes, as well as seafood-based stews and curries that are central to Natuna culinary culture.
This traditional diet may pose some potential health risks that should be carefully considered. The high consumption of salted and preserved fish products could contribute to elevated sodium intake, increasing the risk of hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, the Natuna's heavy reliance on seafood as their primary protein source may put them at an increased risk of hyperuricemia and gout due to the naturally high purine content of certain fish and shellfish. Furthermore, while fish and seafood generally have heart-healthy benefits, the high cholesterol content of some seafood items consumed in large quantities could potentially lead to elevated blood cholesterol levels, another major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Monitoring these health markers and providing targeted dietary guidance and access to medical care could help mitigate these potential risks while preserving the cultural and nutritional value of the Natuna's traditional seafood-based diet.
1.2 Objectives
The primary objective of this study is to analyze the impact of the Natuna community's fish-based traditional diet on key health indicators, including blood pressure, uric acid levels, and blood cholesterol levels. Specifically, the study aims to:
Examine the relationship between the Natuna community's high seafood consumption and blood pressure levels.
Investigate the association between the Natuna community's fish-heavy diet and uric acid levels.
Assess the potential impact of the Natuna community's regular intake of various seafood items on their overall blood cholesterol profile.
