MST-Department of Foods, Nutrition & Dietetics
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Item The relationship between intrahousehold food distribution and pre-school children's nutritional status; a case study between low and high income households in Nairobi(Kenyatta University, 2000) Kakai, Joyce N.; Waudo, Judith N.; Tumuti, D.W.Child malnutrition is a global concern affecting millions of children, especially those of pre-school age. 'I11e main factor contributing to this situation is preferential food distribution rather than household food security. The major purpose of this study was to investigate how the distribution of food within households affects the nutritional status of the pre-school child. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches where semistructured interview and field observation methods of data collection were used. The target population was the household decision-makers and pre-school children aged between 2 and 5 years. The study was carried out in Kaiyaba Village of Mukuru Slum and Riverbank Estate in South 8, Nairobi. A study sample of 84 subjects (34 household decision makers and 50 pre-school children) were purposefully selected and studied. Data was organised and analysed both manually and by computer using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) programme, yielding descriptive statistics. Anthropometric data was analyscd using the anthropackage, while qualitative data was analyscd qualitatively. Research findings revealed that all households in Riverbank were food secure while 75% of those in Kaiyaba were food insecure. The findings con finned that preferential food distribution existed within households irrespective of their food security status. In both groups mothers ate last, ate less and ate poorer quality food during food scarcity. The young children and fathers were served first and were served better quality food even at times of scarcity. The fathers in both groups were served more feed than any ether member cf L~!!hcusehcld, even during food scarcity. The following factors were identified as influencing intrahousehold food distribution: 1) age, 2) nutritional need, 3) food availability, 4) gender,S) birth order, 6) financial contribution, 7) serving method, 8) presence of visitors and 9) cultural values. The dietary data revealed that the majority (90% in Kaiyaba and 69.3% in Riverbank) of the pre-school children in both income groups consumed unbalanced diets. Anthropometry data indicated that 32% of pre-school children in Kaiyaba were stunted and 14.3% were wasted. On the other hand, only 9% of those in Riverbank were stunted while 8.7% were wasted. However, under-weight cases werepredominant in Kaiyaba which registered the highest number (40.7%) while Riverbank registered only 4.5%. Generally more boys than girls were malnourished in both groups. The t-test revealed that there was statistically significant difference in the mean height-for-weight and height-for-age of pre-school children in the two groups, with that of pre-school children in Riverbank being significantly higher than the one for Kaiyaba at (0.05) level. There was also a positive association between the father's level of education and the pre-school children's nutritional status in both income groups. However, mother's level of education was found to be negatively associated to the pre-school children's nutritional status in the high income group.Item The influence of feeding practices on the nutritional status of pre-school children: a case of Ndivisi location, Bungoma District, Western Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2000) Cheloti, Isabella Mulemia; K'Okul, R. N. O.; Tumuti, D.W.The purpose of the study was to find out child feeding patterns that may have had an influence on the nutritional status of pre-school children. Cluster sampling method was used to select eight villages within Ndivisi location for purposes of the study. Purposive sampling method was used to identify 100 households with children between the age of 6-60 months . Additionally anthropometric measurements of 119 children were taken. Results of the studv show that there was existence of malnutrition among children, with (18.5%) of children between the age of 13-24 months suffering from stunting and (17.6%) within the same age bracket suffering from wasting. Demographic information of the respondents showed that 34% of the households had between 4-6 members, while (32%) of the mothers had only received primary level education. Socio-economic status of the population indicates that very few household heads 22.8% had permanent employment and were thus earning a steady income. Those involved in petty businesses (27%) did not consider it to be employment. The most common illness among the sampled population, was fever with 25.4% suffering from it within the last seven days before the research was carried out. The other common ailment was diarrhea (22.1%.) Child feeding patterns showed that, 70.7% of the mothers stopped breast-feeding their children when they were between the age of 1-2 years, while the most common types of weaning foods given to pre-school children were of the carbohydrate group 41%, the most common being maize meal porridge. Further results showed that (69%) of the pre-school children were subject to taboos related to food, where 51.9% of the children were not supposed to eat meat or drink milk from the eng'enda cow. Correlations carried out on the relationship between nutritional status and the demographic characteristics of the respondents showed that there was a high positive correlation of 0.8 where the significant level p=0.5 between the educational level of the respondents and the weight for age status of pre-school children. There was also a high positive correlation of 0.9 where the significant level p=0.5 between the occupation status of the respondents and the height for age index of pre-school children. From the analysis it is evident that the poor nutritional status of pre-school children could be attributed to lack of steady incomes both by household heads and mothers, low levels of education especially by the mothers, poor weaning and feeding practices of pre-school children and the existence of food taboos. Other likely causes could have been prevalence of illnesses and poor sanitary conditions.Item Household food security and nutritional status of children in tea and non-tea producing households in Ndia division of Kirinyaga district.(Kenyatta University, 2002) Njogu, Eunice Wambui; Ngige, L.W.The household food security and nutritional status of children in the tea and non-tea producing households was investigated in this comparative study. This study focused on generating food consumption/purchase information from the farmers themselves, in order to achieve the set objectives. The objectives of this study were: to establish how much land was utilized for tea and food crop production; to determine gender involvement in income utilization; to assess nutritional status of children below five years in tea and non-tea producing households; to compare the nutritional status of children below five years in tea and non-tea producing households; to determine the food security status of tea and non-tea producing households and establish the relationship between nutritional status of children and the household food security in Ndia Division of Kirinyaga District. The study was carried out in Ndia Division of Kirinyaga District, and interview and observation guides were used in this study in order to collect data from a sample of 120 households comprising of 60 tea and 60 non-tea producing households. The data collected was summarized and analyzed by the use of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) programme. The qualitative data was organized into categories and then into themes where relationships were determined. Out of the 120 respondents, 116 (96.6%) had obtained education up to the secondary '0' level, while only 4 (3.4%) had achieved education beyond this level. The main source of income for the tea-producing households was sale of tea while the non-tea producing households did not have any specific source of income. Therefore most 37(30.8%), of the tea-producing respondents confessed regularity of their Income while only 7(5.8%) respondents from non-tea producing households confessed regularity of income. However, in both areas decisions on income use were mostly 106(80.8%) made jointly that is, by both spouses. The average size of the land holdings in the two areas was 1.8 acres. According to the results of the study, more than half that is, 37(30.8%) of the tea-producing households devoted half and above of their land to tea production and the other less than half to food crop production. On the contrary, all 60(50%) non-tea-producing households devoted more than half of their land to food crop production. Even with a regular income, the tea producers had more 39(32.5%) children who were malnourished than 15(12.5%) children who were malnourished in the non-tea-producing households. The tea-producing households were at the risk of food insecurity because they relied on purchased food to meet the household food needs. This was evident in the large number of malnourished children in their households and their non-diversified meals. The results revealed a relationship between nutritional status of children and the income regularity that is, whether it was regular or irregular and between nutritional status and the type of crops produced that is, whether tea or non-tea. The government, charitable organizations and the nutritionists have a task to undertake in order to improve the nutritional well being of all the individuals and the society as a whole.Item Relationships between the farming practices of small scale Farmers and household food security: a case of Mumoni division, Mwingi district, Kenya.(2002-07) Kioko, MativoThis study sought to investigate the farming practices of small-scale farmers in Mumoni Division, Mwingi district; and, to determine how they relate to their households' food security. The specific objectives of the study were: a) To establish the farming practices of the small-scale farmers; b) To investigate the extent of household food insecurity among the small-scale farmers; c) To determine the relationship between selected ~emographic and socio-economic characteristics of the small-scale fanners and their households' food security; and, d) To determine the relationship between selected farming practices and farm-related factors 0f the small-scale farmers and their households' food security. The study was carried out in Mumoni Division, Mwingi district. It was cross -- sectional in nature as it sought to e~tablish the prevailing situation. A combination of probability and non-probability sampling techniques were used to identify the respondents who were drawn from the high and low altitude areas of the division. Individual respondents were identified by use of the area sampling method. A total of 109 respondents were studied. Data were collected by use 0 r interview schedules and observation guides. The collected data were summarised by use of frequencies and percentages. The Pearson product moment correlation was used to determine the strength and direction of relationships between variables while the independent samples t-test was used to compare household food availability means for selected variables. The findings of the study show that the level or technology employed in farming among the respondents was relatively rudimentary with hand tools and especially the traditional hoe being the most commonly used. Oxen ploughing was the only mechanised option available to those who had or could access an ox-plough and draught VI animals. Animal manure, vegetable trash and crop rotation were the major fertility maintenance/ promotion methods reported as used by the respondents. None of the respondents reported using chemical fertilizers in food production Women made up the Illajority 01' the day-to-day managers 01' food production This was partly because 01' the out-migratiou or men to other places in search of employment The farmers concentrated in food crops production mainly sorghum, ! bulrush millets, cowpeas, green grams,_maize and beans. Colton and castor oi] trees, cash crops hitherto C011111l01lclyultivated ill the area had been abandoned due to marketing problems. Traditional agriculture was f(JLJ11dto have a lot of influence on farming among the respondents with a big proportion or them i.c. 60% relying on it as the major source or inlonnation on lill1lling The rC,lS()IISI()J·this were partly because it offered cheaper and less demanding alternatives to other options. Farmers generally begin work ill their farms early with many starting operations such as land preparation and planting before the rains The major constraint reported by the respondents as limiting agricultural production was the erratic rains. Other constraints included lack of essential inputs e.g. seeds; illiteracy, crop pests, inadequate agricuhural extension services, labour COIl,Item An assessment of service quality as perceived by customers in five star restaurants in Nairobi, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2008-06) Opondo, Josephine AtienoThe tenet of this study is that despite hospitality staff claiming to offer quality services many customers' expectations are not met. Staff tend to focus on tangible elements of the products in their role as service providers. Service providers should regularly monitor service quality and customer satisfaction in an attempt to improve customer retention. Inappropriate or inadequate treatment can result in customer dissatisfaction. The purpose of the study was to assess various quality aspects of service as perceived by the customers in five star restaurants in Nairobi. The study aimed at determining the difference in attitudes and expectations of both customers and service providers. A descriptive survey design was used to evaluate service quality as perceived by customers in selected five star restaurants in Nairobi. This design enabled the researcher to gather information, summarize, present and interpret information for the purpose of clarification The study was restricted to three, five star restaurants in Nairobi, namely: A, B and C.The letters have been used for anonymity reasons. Simplerandom method was used to select three restaurants from the classification of hotels andi~sta'urants. Convenient sampling and stratified methods were used to select subjects for the study. Customers from each of the three restaurants were conveniently selected (A 125, B 120 and C 40). Three restaurant managers < and 22 waiting staff were also interviewed. Data were collected using; rating scale, questionnaires and interview schedules. Observation forms and guest comment cards were also used. Data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The main techniques used to analyze data were the Chi-square (x2), Pearson Product- moment correlation (r), Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and factor analysis. The result of study showed that five top ranked customer satisfaction dimensions revealed that customers were extremely satisfied with; customers' problems treated sympathetically, staff knowledgeable about products, friendliness and politeness of staff, food is fresh and there is no mix up in orders or bills. The study found that the customers were extremely satisfied with the restaurant's reliability, empathy, assurance and responsiveness. However, they were satisfied with tangibles. From this study the reseafcher concludes that; Customers are satisfied with the quality of services provided by the five star restaurants in Nairobi. The restaurants meet the requirements for five star restaurants as established in the criteria for classification of restaurants; Different restaurants provide customers with different levels of satisfaction and majority of the working staff are satisfied with the working conditions within the restaurants. Based on the study, it is recommended that a focus should be made in areas such as empathy, responsiveness and assurance so as to retain and attract more customers. Since majority of the waiting staff are dissatisfied with the pay they received, the management of the five star restaurants should review the pay of staff to ensure that the workers get their rightful dues. This can enhance the quality of service they deliver to customers.Item Overweight and obesity prevalence and associated socio-economic factors, physical activity and dietary intake among women in Kibera division, Nairobi(2011-05-09) Mbochi, W. ReginaOverweight and obesity is an escalating problem worldwide yet extensive data especially in Africa is still lacking. The main objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity and associated ocio-economic factors, physical activity, and dietary intake among women in Nairobi, Kenya. A crosssectional design was used. Data on socio-economic factors of the women, their physical activity and dietary intake patterns, as well as anthropometric measurements were collected from 336 women aged 25-54 years from five socio-economic groups, in Kibera Division of Nairobi, using the stratified random tmpling method. Three indicators [body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage attd waist circumference] were used to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) swtware. Descriptive and inferential statistics such as the mean, frequencies and pet centages were used to describe the data. Chi-square tests were performed to e tablish the association between categorical variables, while analysis of variance ANOVA was used to compare the means. Correlation analysis was performed to e tablish the strength and direction of the relationship between variables. Multiple regression analysis was done to determine the independent variables that predict the occur, once of overweight and obesity in the study population. Age, parity and the educati. n levels of the women were significantly different by socio-economic groups (P<0.001 each). While age and level of education increased up the socio-economic ladder, parity showed an opposite trend. Income and expenditure were significantly correlated (r =0.474; P<0.001), with total monthly income and expenditure increasing up the ocio-economic ladder. Physical activity was negatively correlated with the socio-ec nomic group, (r-0.308; P<0.001). Significant differences (chi-square test) were obset ed between the dietary intake of the women by socio-economic groups. The c mbined prevalence of overweight and obesity was high, using the three indicators 68.6% by BMI, 78.0% by body fat percentage and 67.5% by waist circumference). F he differences between the combined prevalence of overweight and obesity by socio economic groups were statistically significant [(P=0.003) by BMI and (P=0.014) by body fat percentage] with increasing levels in higher socio-economic groups. Age and parity were significant predictors of overweight and obesity. Prevalence increased as the age and the number of births per woman increased. The mean values are all the three outcome variables (BMI, fat percentage and waist circumference) increased as the physical activity levels decreased. There were significant differences between the mean values of the indicators at different physical activity levels (P 0.05). The combined prevalence of overweight and obesity increased as the nun ber of hours spent on sedentary behaviour increased (by BMI). Frequency of cott umption of nearly all foods was not associated with overweight and obesity by all the indicators. Dietary protein and fat were the only macronutrients associated with overweight and obesity. The findings are a clear evidence of the rising trends of overweight and obesity among women in urban areas of developing countries. Overweight and obesity is not a problem limited to the high socio-economic groups, as the prevalence was found even in lower socio-economic groups. Age, parity, social-economic status and physical activity are all significant predictors of overweight and obesity in the study area. Efforts should be made to address the problem of overweight and obesity, by addressing the factors associated with it.Item Contribution of tourism ventures to the local people's livelihoods in the Maasai group ranches bordering Amboseli national park, Kenya(2011-11-02) Nthiga, Rita wairimu; Waudo, Judith N.; Okello, M. M.The tourism industry is widely regarded as a means of achieving development in destination areas. Indeed, the reason for tourism, the justification for its development and promotion is its potential contribution to development and improvement of local people's livelihoods. This research sought to explore the contribution of tourism ventures to the local people's livelihoods and to devek>pment in general, in the Maasai group ranches bordering the Amboseli National Park, Kenya. The study utilizes a descriptive survey design where both simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used to get the study sample. Data were collected using questionnaires which were administered to the local community members and interview schedules for the investors of the tourism ventures, group ranch officials, and The Kenya Wildlife service (KWS) and the Tsavo- Amboseli group ranches association. The variables investigated included social-economic and demographic characteristics of the locals and the distnbution of income by the t verges, number of locals employed and the ventures' community-based initiatives. Data vvene analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 14.0. Descriptive (frequency) and inferential Measures were determined to show how the variables of interest were distributed. In order to compare the relations between variables, Chi-square goodness of fit test was performed.. The results indicated that a lot of money (over Kshs- 12 million) was received by the tree group ranches every year from tourism investments and only a small amount went to the group ranch members or the local people. The majority of respondents were male (69%). A high percentage (47°/®) was illiterate and (40°%) practiced moralism as a source of livelihood. The majority of respondents (93%) did not receive any direct income from the leasehold by the tourism ventures while 94°/® did not have a member of their household employed hi the tourism ventures. A bffW number of respondeflts (97%) felt that tourism had not reduced their vulnerability to drought while 91% did not have any skills imparted to them by the tourism mveA;raents. The findings indicate that the group ranch members received limited benefits from tourism developments ht the area. The Andy recommends that there is need for the government to set policies addressing the management of grog ranches which will ewe co participation and benefit shag m tourism. The research also recommends inclusion of transparency and accountability aspects in the management of the group ranch resourcesItem Assessment of complementary feeding practices and nutritional status among children in Athi-River, Machakos District, Kenya(2011-11-03) Chelimo, Florence L.; Kuria, E. N.; Rombo, G. O.Complementary feeding involves feeding infants and young children with semi-solid and solid foods in addition to breast milk to ensure adequate nutrition Mother's or principal caregiver's practices however determine the success of complementary feeding. This is affected by many socio-economic and socio cultural factors among others. A descriptive survey study on the complementary feeding practices and the nutritional status of children aged 6 to 24 months was carried out in Athi-river Division of Machakos District, a district that has continually reported high cases of childhood malnutrition. Athi-river is an industrial town in the district and therefore mothers move from other areas to Athiriver in search of employment. The major objective was to assess the complementary feeding practices and the nutritional status of children. A sample of 132 mothers and their children were randomly selected to form the study sample. Data were collected using an interview schedule, anthropometry, focus group discussions, observations and laboratory analysis. The data were analyzed using SPSS, Nutri-survey, Epi-info computer packages and expressed in descriptive and inferential statistics. A P- value of <0.05 was considered significant. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was used to determine the magnitude and direction of the relationship between complementary feeding practices and the nutritional status of the children. Multiple regression was used to determine whether the various complementary feeding practices predict the nutritional status. About half of the respondents (49.2%) were aged between 19 - 25 years while 61.4% and 69.7% of them had primary school education and were casual labourers respectively. Slightly less than half of the respondents (41.7%) left their children with neighbours when they went to work. Although, majority of the study children (77.7%) were being breastfed at the time of the study, exclusive breastfeeding was only done for at most 2 months of life, hence complementary foods were introduced at an early age than the recommended. Slightly more than two thirds (69.2%) of the mothers did not use commercial foods, which are fortified. Majority of the respondents (78.8%) used feeding bottles instead of the recommended cup or bowl and spoon. All the mothers did not sterilize the feeding equipment. Slightly more than half (51.5%) of the mothers did not treat the water they use to prepare the child's food. Majority of the children did not consume adequate amounts of nutrients such as vitamin A (77.2%), vitamin 132 (85.6%), B3 (85.7%), 136 (60.6%), B12 (73.5%), Magnesium (98.4%), zinc (79.6%) and selenium (73.5%). More than half of the children did not also consume vegetables (82.6%), fruits (64.5%) and animal products (59.1%) regularly as recommended. Financial constraints limited the complementary feeding of the children. The proportion of the 6 to 24 months old children that was stunted, wasted and underweight was 25.0%, 24.9% and 19.7% respectively. Majority of the children (72.8%) had been ill for the past two weeks. The number of meals consumed and amount of kilocalories taken were found to affect the nutritional status of children significantly. The number of meals consumed per day, amount of kilocalories and income earned were found to contribute to 21.0% of the children's nutritional status. It was recommended that mothers be empowered and educated on complementary feeding practices.Item Dietary practices and nutritional status of pre- adolescent pupils attending primary schools in Thika District(2011-11-03) Simuli, Beatrice Musee; Kuria, E. N.Prevalence of malnutrition is common among school children. There is clear evidence that ill health and malnutrition adversely affect education. Simple health and nutrition intervention delivered through education system can improve education outcomes. Studies have shown both macronutrient and micronutrients deficiency in school children in Kenya. There is very little information available about the nutrition status of preadolescents whose growth rates are rapid and nutrient demands are high in preparation for adolescent stage. To curb deficiencies, it is vital for frequent dietary and nutrition status of pupils to be determined. This leads to determination of pupils' dietary practices, nutrition status, and the relationship between dietary practices and nutrition status of preadolescent pupils. Nutrition status is an important marker of overall health and linear growth. Retardation has serious long-term physiological and economic consequences. It is therefore important that factors influencing pupils' nutrition status be established. A descriptive survey with cross sectional design study was carried out on a sample of 400 mixed primary school pupils aged 10-11 years in Thika District. Five schools were selected using simple random sampling method from public mixed day schools. In each school, eighty pupils aged 10-11 years were simple random sampled. Data was collected by structured questionnaire and observation. Pupils' social economic and demographic factors, anthropometrical measurement, observation list, 24-hour dietary recall, and food frequency were determined. The instruments were pre-tested. Demographic data collection was carried out. Quantitative data was analyzed by statistical package of social sciences (SPSS). Anthropometrical data was transformed to nutrition indices by use of EPI-INF02000 computer software. Each pupil's Body Mass Index was determined too. The indices were compared to the National Center for health statistics (NCHS) reference norms. The 24-hour recall results were analylized by Nutri - survey package. This was then compared to RDAs to establish if there was adequate consumption. Qualitative data was analyzed by, summarizing and categorizing into themes. Chi-square was used to determine association between categorical variables. Pearson product moment correlation coefficient(r) was used to show the relationship between non-categorical variables. Consumption of protein was 28.5% below the recommended daily allowance while for vitamin C was 84.8% below RDA. Consumption of iron was 64.9% below RDA while consumption of the micronutrients, vitamins B6 and calcium was 4% and 79.7% below RDA respectively. This was caused by less consumption of foods that are rich in micronutrients. Overall prevalence of stunting and thinness was 24.25% and 23.5%, respectively. The prevalence of stunting and thinness decreased with those parents that had well-paying jobs. The paired t-test compared the means of the daily intake of the nutrients by gender, which revealed that there was a significant difference (p-value<0.05) with males having a higher mean intake as compared to their female counterparts. From the study, it can be concluded that there was a significant difference between the nutrition status of pupils aged 10-11 years old and the dietary practices. Pupils that received better dietary practices were healthier than those that didn't. The dietary practices, income earning of parents, and education level affected the nutrition status of pupils. Malnutrition was prevalent in most schools. Findings suggest the need for frequent assessment of nutrition status of pupils and determination of causal factors of malnutrition in schools countrywide.Item Dietary intake, morbidity and nutrition status of HIV-infected women attending patients support centers in Suba District, Kenya(2011-11-03) Situma, Jane NaliakaThe HIV/AIDS epidemic has become a serious health and development problem in subSaharan Africa. This is particularly true in Western Kenya where it exacerbates poverty by decreasing agricultural production, food and nutrition security especially in HIV/AIDS affected households. The purpose of this study was to assess dietary intake, health and nutrition status of HIV infected women attending patients support centers in Suba District. The objectives of the study were; to determine demographic characteristics of HIV - infected women, assess their dietary intake, assess their nutrition status, determine prevalence of morbidity among them, determine household food sharing dynamics and other issues affecting their nutrition and determine whether there is any relationships between demographic characteristics, dietary intake, morbidity and nutrition status. The study was a cross-sectional descriptive study. Two patient support centers; Suba district hospital patient support centre and Mbita health centre patient support centre were used to identify HIV infected women included in the study. All HIV- infected women were eligible for the study. Data were collected between June and July 2006. A total of 191 women were sampled using Proportionate sampling and systematic random sampling methods. A structured questionnaire and observation checklist were used to collect data. Anthropometric measurements, prevalence of morbidity, socio-economic and demographic characteristics were collected. Data obtained were then coded, edited and analyzed. Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used to analyze descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Anthropometric data were analyzed using EPI Info. Chi-square tests were used to determine the relationships between the dependent and independent variables at 0.05 level of significance. The results showed that 41.9% of the women were widowed. The mean daily caloric intake was 1378 kilocalories where protein intake as a percentage of caloric intakes was 17.4% while carbohydrate intake was 45.6% and fat was 37%. Caloric intake was deficient in more than 90% of the HIVinfected women. Presence of illness such as malaria, gastro-intestinal and respiratory infections among respondents was 66.4 %. Majority (97.9%) of respondents did not have any cultural beliefs and taboos about food. Basing on BMI, 46% of the HIV- infected women were at nutritional risk. There was statistically significant relationship between dietary intake and nutrition status (p=0.025) at 0.05 level of significant. There was no statistically significant relationship (p=0.453) between morbidity and nutrition status; nutrition status and household food sharing dynamics, cultural beliefs and taboos at 0.05 level of significant among the HIV infected women attending patient support centers in Suba district. There is need to encourage and support good nutrition and proper health care support among the PLWHA. The study findings are useful in planning and implementing interventions that aim at improving health and nutrition status of HIV - infected women.Item Household food security and nutritional status of the underfive year olds in Navakholo Division Kakamega District(2011-11-03) Waiswa, Mary NawireMalnutrition is a major cause of poor nutritional status in children between the ages of 6 - 59 months, because children at this stage are most vulnerable to inadequate dietary intake and illness. This results in long-term growth failure manifesting as stunting, poor intellectual capacity, reduction of work productivity, reduced earning capacity and eventually food production. The main objective of this study was to assess the household food security and nutritional status of the under fives in sugarcane farming households of Navakholo Division Kakamega District. This was a cross sectional study covering a sample of 146 households. The study was designed to address the scope and magnitude of food security and nutritional status under fives in four ways: Anthropometric instruments, a questionnaire with both open ended and closed-ended questions, observation checklist and focus group discussion. Data were collected and analyzed using a computer software Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Frequencies, means and percentages were used to organize and describe the results. Pearson and Spearman test were used to establish relationship in different variables. Anthropometric data were analyzed using EPI-INFO 2000 computer package. The results revealed that 97.3% of the respondents had their own land, which was a mean of 3 acres, 91.8% of the HH had more than a third of this land on sugarcane growing. The findings also showed that 40.3% of the under five were stunted, 18% wasted and 28.2% were underweight. Majority of these children had been ill two weeks prior to the study. Income levels were low, most HH received Kshs. 2500 - 9000, resulting in lack of meal diversity, 20% of the under fives were served with lunch. Maize meal and sukuma wiki were the major component of meals served. At the time of the study, most HHs were food insecure with 65% of the respondents having no food in store. Household size was correlated with nutritional status. (r = 0.140 p = 0.022), size of land on both sugarcane and food crops was (r = 0.29 p = 0.001) underweight and stunting (p = 0.004). Land and stored food were correlated at (r = 0.100 p = 0.05). The results of the study showed that most HHs were food insecure and the nutritional status of the under fives was higher than the national levels. The study, therefore, recommends that sugarcane farmers should diversify sources of income to improve on food security and nutritional status of the under fives.Item Dietary practices and nutrition status of HIV-infected patients on ARVs at AMREF clinic Kibera-Nairobi(2011-11-03) Juma, Rose JanetHIV and AIDS is a major health challenge to many nations globally. The scourge has scaled down social and economic progress in many countries and more so in the sub-Saharan Africa where its impact has further been compounded by escalating poverty levels and food insecurity. Studies from developed countries have shown that good nutrition with proper drug use improves longevity and productivity of life of those infected. Little is known about how HIV-infected persons faced with chronic malnutrition and regular food shortages from a developing nation like Kenya adjust their dietary practices to attain good nutrition with use of ARVs. The study sought to find out if HIV-infected patients on ARVs from resource-limited settings were able to practice good nutrition that would enable them to achieve optimal nutritional status and ensure proper drug use. Assessments were done on nutritional status, dietary practices, dietary management of common illnesses affecting food intake and ARV use with food recommendations. A descriptive case study design was used on one hundred and twenty systematically sampled HIV-infected patients registered for ARVs at AMREF Clinic of Kibera slums. Data were collected by, anthropometric measurements, bio-chemical analysis (serum total protein, albumin levels, cholesterol and haemoglobin), semi-structured questionnaire and secondary data. Statistical package of social sciences (SPSS) and Nutri-survey computer packages were used to analyze data. The patients ate one meal per day with their diets consisting of more carbohydrate foods. Quality protein foods were scarce in the diet just like fruits and indigenous vegetables. Dietary intake of vital micro-nutrients such as zinc, selenium, magnesium, calcium, iron, vitamins E, C, Bit, B2, folic acid and 136 were inadequate for >70% of the patients. While only 6.7% of the respondents were underweight (BMI<18.5), there were 9.2% of them who were overweight (BMI> 25kg/m2) and majority (84.2%) were normal (BMI 18.5-25k g/m2) though serum albumin test results showed (mean 3.34_+0.06g/dl) that 60.8% of the respondent were protein deficient, thus, malnourished. Dietary protein intakes were also low (33.10+2.23gm) for 44.2% of the respondents. The BMI was not related to dietary nutrient intakes and neither was it related to serum albumin and to CD4 cell counts (p>0.05). It appeared that there was no significant difference in BMI at different categories of CD4 cell count (p>0.05) suggesting that the level of immunity did not affect weight gain with ARV as has been found in many studies from developed countries. There was a significant relation ship between serum albumin and dietary intakes of all the nutrients (p<0.05) and the strength of the relationships was weak (r<0.5). Dietary food intakes were hindered by lack of appetite, coughs, heart-burn, dental problems, constipation and bloatedness. Patients seemed well informed on how to manage their nutrition problems but a few were practicing nutritionally risky measures such as licking ash, stopping to eat for a while, use of lemons or chewing medicine, that needed nutritional interventions. Malnutrition was evident among 60.8% of the cases as identified by serum albumin tests. Therefore, improving the respondents' access to quality food is a necessity. Nutritional projects for Kibera community need to be more focused on improving micro-nutrients and protein consumption as their intakes were inadequate in the diets assessed. Since majority (68%) of the patients only ate once a day due to lack of food, national food and nutrition policy should incorporate food security boosting guidelines for the poor people infected with HIV and using ARVs.Item Utilization trends of dietary supplements by male rugby players in the 2006 season of Kenya cup league(2011-11-03) Elizabeth, Mse; Kimiywe, Judith; Simiyu, N.W.W.Dietary or nutritional supplements are substances which act either nutritionally to reverse or prevent deficiency (multivitamins) or pharmacological to alter some process. This takes place through affecting the energy metabolism, affecting the central nervous system, increasing lean body mass or muscle mass, stimulating protein synthesis and reducing body fat content. Nutritional supplements are sometimes referred to as ergogenic aids since they are believed to enhance performance. A considerable number of elite, non-elite and recreational athletes have been reported having used a wide range of special foods and supplements. In spite of this, it is not yet established whether rugby players in Kenya utilize dietary (nutritional) supplements or not. The purpose of the present study was to establish demographic characteristics, determine the extent of the knowledge, to determine the consumption levels and identify factors that influence the utilization trends of dietary supplements by the Kenya Cup Rugby players of the 2006 season. The study adopted the descriptive survey design. This enabled the researcher to cover an extensive area and obtain as much information as possible. The factors under investigation were age, level of education, occupation, experience and club affiliation as independent variables while knowledge and consumption of supplements as well as reasons for taking supplements as dependant variables. The target population was 210 players from seven teams that participated in the Kenya Cup League. Simple random sampling was used to select 140 (67%) respondents out of the target population of 210. A validated questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale was used to collect data. Descriptive statistics were used to describe players' demographic characteristics and their knowledge levels. Chi-square (x2) at 0.05 level of significance was used to test the hypotheses. Results showed that majority (78%) of the players were below the age of 25 years. The largest (65%) proportion of the players had attained tertiary/university level of education. Half (50%) of the players had been with their respective teams for a period of 3 - 6 years. The largest (71.1%) proportion of the players had played for the national team a duration of less than 2 years. Generally, rugby players had relatively little (creatine monohydrate - 44.9%, antioxidants - 11.3%, multivitamins 44.2%, glutamine 14%, whey protein 37.3% and ZMA - 8.6%) knowledge about the dietary supplements. The results showed significant differences in the consumption of dietary supplements based on age, level of education, occupation, experience and club affiliation. All the six factors (taking, enjoying, not wanting to take, liking and not motivated to take dietary supplements) showed significant differences at 0.000. Similarly significant differences were also noted in the reasons for taking dietary supplements based on age, level of education, occupation, experience and club affiliation. Four reasons (excel in sport, not important and cannot afford a balanced diet) were found to influence rugby players at 0.000 except worthwhile and necessary at 0.001. Based on the findings, the following recommendations were suggested; the Kenya Rugby Football Union should organise clinics, courses, and seminars for rugby coaches and teachers regarding dietary supplementation, the technical benches of rugby clubs should incorporate nutritionists (dieticians) to guide players on the right dietary habits. Further research should be conducted on women rugby teams, other dietary supplements and variables apart from those investigated in the present study.Item Nutritional status, blood pressure levels and the associated risks for hypertension among Kenyatta University employees, Nairobi, Kenya(2011-11-03) Mogesi, Betty SamburuCardiovascular diseases cause 16.7 million deaths worldwide annually. WHO Data (2002) showed that hypertension was the major contributing factor to all deaths in the world. Obesity has reached epidemic proportions globally with more than 1 billion adults overweight of whom 300 million are clinically obese. The Kenya Health Management information system recorded 28% inpatient mortality as a result of cardiovascular diseases in the year 2001. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the nutritional status, blood pressure levels and the associated risks for hypertension among Kenyatta University employees. Many studies have been done to assess nutritional status in mothers and children. Little is known about the diets or nutritional status of adults in general population. There are still shortcomings in the available data and several challenges remain; most epidemiological data come from western countries and may not be fully relevant to Kenyan situation where diet and other factors may differ substantially. The study was carried out at Kenyatta University which was purposively selected. The target groups were both teaching and non-teaching employees aged between 25 to 75 years. The study used a descriptive survey design. The sample size was 236 subjects selected using multistage sampling technique. The main data collection instrument was a questionnaire. Data analysis was done using SPSS computer package. To determine the relationship between social demographic characteristics, dietary habits, lifestyle habits, nutritional status and hypertension, logistic regression was applied. Pearson Product- Moment correlation (r) was used to test the hypotheses. Odds ratio were determined for factors that relate to hypertension. Many participants had intake of nutrients that were below the recommended daily allowances especially the minerals and vitamins. The data revealed that diets of most employees (70%) needed improvement. About 10% of the population had a good diet and 20% had a poor dietary intake. Of the 236 subjects, 35.6% were overweight, another 16.9% were classified as being in obese class 1 and 3.4% were in obese class 2. In general 39.4% of the study subjects had hypertension (BP>140/90mmHg or taking antihypertensive medicine). However, 36.7% of respondents with high blood pressure were unaware of their hypertensive status. Most people reported low level of physical activities that were within their main occupation such as walking to work. There was a strong positive relationship between obesity and hypertension p value 0.000 at 95% confidence interval. Other variables that were positively and strongly related to hypertension were age and physical activity (p-value 0.001). Physical activities were found to be key in controlling blood pressure. The low intake of micronutrients is a health risk and preventive measures need to be put in place. More than half of Kenyatta university employees had poor nutrition status as depicted by high level of overweight and obesity. This data reveal that obesity and hypertension is already emerging as a public health problem that needs to be addressed. The level of awareness on hypertensive status is suboptimal among the employees and this call for creation of awareness through information, education, social mobilization and advocacy activities that should move beyond the current focus. Therefore institutions should take action on diet and health as part of their responsibility for protecting the health of their populations. Since hypertension is emerging as a public health problem it is important to gather epidemiological data on hypertension as a crucial step in the design of sound preventive and control programme. An intervention study is needed on the role of nutrition in management of hypertension.Item Nutritional status and eating disorders among female hair and beauty college students in Nairobi(2011-11-03) Muia, Esther Nduku; Kuria, E. N.; Kimiywe, JudithEating disorders among young females are on the increase. Body image concerns are more prevalent in females than males; hence eating disorders are also more prevalent in females than males. Many college females are struggling with the idea of weight loss or gain to meet the perfect standard and yet they lack laid down procedures on how to do it thus resorting to harmful methods. It is in this light that this study was designed. The purpose of this study was to investigate the nutritional status and socio-behavioral factors that influence disordered eating habits among female hair and beauty college students in Nairobi, Kenya. The objectives of the study were to asses, the nutritional status of female college students, determine the prevalence of eating disorders, and determine the risk factors associated with eating disorders. The study was carried out in Nairobi. The target population was females attending hair and beauty colleges in Nairobi, aged 18- 26 years. The study involved 219 respondents. Data were collected using questionnaires. Nutritional status was determined by computing the BMI of the respondents and also looking at consumption of various foods over a given period of time. Quantitative data were analysed using (SPSS) programme. To determine the nutritional status anthropometric data were analyzed using Epi Info to compute Body Mass Index. The Eating Attitudes Test was used to measure disordered eating behaviors. Cut off points for physical activities were chosen in a manner consistent with the national health objectives and recommendations. Eighty two percent of the respondents reported normal eating habits while 18% reported abnormal eating habits. Six percent of the respondents were underweight, 60.5% were of normal weight, 24.7% were overweight and 8.8% were obese. It was noted that most of the respondents were exercising for longer periods than recommended by the National Health Objectives and Recommendations for physical activity. There was a significant relationship p<_ 0.05 between peer support and development of eating disorders. There was also a significant relationship p<_ 0.05 between eating disorders and the kind of family one came from. Reading of magazines and television watching had no influence on food issues. There was no significant relationship between nutrition status and eating habits at p<_ 0.05 significance levels, though contingency coefficient measure of association showed that nutrition status accounted for 23 percent of the observed variations in eating habits. Conclusion; Young females in beauty colleges are engaging in disordered eating habits that may be harmful to their health. It was therefore recommended that nutritionists should offer nutrition education to young females on the dangers of engaging in disordered eating habits and nutrition education should be strengthened in the curriculum that is used in the beauty colleges for change to be realized.Item Effects of Socio-economic Conditions of Small-scale Traders of Postharvest Tilapia Quality and Safety in Kisumu, Kenya(2011-11-28) Otieno, Elizabeth Ockeyo; Waudo, Judith N.; Orinda, G. O.Fish quality and safety are important in socio-economic development and are critical in nutritional requirements. However, constraints limit accessibility of the trade to both domestic and export markets. There has been difficulty in addressing these problems as little development support targets small-scale trade and environmental threats like fish contamination and pollution still remain a challenge. The objectives of this study were to determine the socio-economic conditions of the fish traders, to investigate hygiene practices in handling, storage and processing of fish and to isolate and identify human pathogens in both fresh and processed fish in the markets. A descriptive design was employed in this study, which described the socio-economic characteristics of the small-scale traders. The study was carried out in Kisumu town amongst 156 small-scale traders who were selected using random sampling method. A total of 30 respective samples were randomly selected from these traders in each of the 10 markets for microbiological analysis. Data collection instruments used were questionnaires, interview guides and observation checklists. Description statistics were used to analyse objectives one and two. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to compare mean plate count values of fresh and processed fish and this established a significance difference between the two with a value of 0.44. ANOVA also tested the total coliform counts which showed a significant difference in the means of TCC of fresh and processed fish samples with a Pvalue of 0.30 (P-value>T statistics of 5.245). T-test revealed that mean bacterial counts (APC) differed significantly from the standard value of 1Obcfu/g ((Pvalue>T statistics of 2.644). Statistical tests revealed strong relationship in education levels, average amount of money spent and income per day of traders and their fish handling practices. The APC and TCC results showed that fresh fish had higher bacterial counts than processed. The study results revealed that small-scale trade needs to be targeted with sound development, effective and supportive policies so that it can not only improve livelihoods by providing employment, but also contribute towards foreign exchange earnings. The traders also need to be empowered economically in order to improve their trade. There is need to educate the traders on good handling practices during the trade so as to improve quality and safety of fish and to avoid contamination of their products. The information generated from this study is useful for educating the traders. Further research should be done on human pathogens that course contamination.Item An investigation on glycemic index of local foods and use in management of diabetes mellitus : a study in Kisii and Homa- Bay district hospitals(2011-11-28) Munga, Judith; Waudo, Judith N.; Nyambaka, H. N.Diabetes mellitus is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. Non-Insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) occurs because insulin produced by beta cells of pancreas is either insufficient or not used properly by target tissues. Nutrition services have become quite vital in management of NIDDM. However, the choice of type and amount of food is always not an easy task. Glycemic index (GI) is widely used to select various foodstuffs for use by NIDDM diabetics, though; little has been done regarding Kenyan foods. This study investigated the suitability of locally available foodstuffs in the management of NIDDM by determining their GI. The study was carried out in Homa-Bay and Kisii District Hospitals in Nyanza Province-Kenya, on 116 NIDDM diabetics. A descriptive cross sectional study was used to collect data-on GI, demographic information, medical history, physical activity and meal planning. An interview schedule was used to collect verbal information while blood glucose levels were determined before and 2 hours after consuming a selected local foodstuff. The results were averaged and compared to test food (white bread) to determine their GI. Data collected were coded in Microsoft word and Microsoft excel computer software. Frequencies were done on the SPSS statistical computer software to determine percentages and GI of 10 selected foodstuffs using the formula (x/3.1 x100). The results of the study revealed that NIDDM diabetics have not exhaustively used locally available foods in the management of the disorder due to low education and income levels respectively. The GI of the tested foods point to the potentiality of their usefulness in management of NIDDM. Mixed meals yielded high GI compared to individual foods consumed singly. Application of GI policy in meal planning and management of NIDDM makes locally available foodstuffs appropriate in management of NIDDM. The patients were found not to have exhaustively utilized nutrition as a means of management of NIDDM but majorly relied on drugs. The study recommends use of locally available foods by NIDDM diabetics for both cost effectiveness and conveniences and GI of various foods to be considered in meal planning to enhance continued enjoyment of favorite foodstuffs before the onset of NIDDM. The study generally concludes that locally available foodstuffs are appropriate in the management of NIDDM.Item Influence of material gestational weight gain on infant birth weight among women attending antenatal care at Thika District Hospital in Centra Kenya(2011-11-28) Gitonga, Susan Kanyua; Kimiywe, Judith; Waudo, Judith N.Influence of Maternal gestational Weight Gain on Infant Birth Weight Gestational weight gain in Thika District Hospitatl is mainly infuenced by maternal dietary intake, age, income, education level and supplement use. Low birth weight is associated with increased occurrence of mental retardation, birth defects, growth problems, blindness, autism and celebral palsy. The primary objective of the study was to determine pregnancy weight gain of women attending antenatal clinic in Thika district hospital and establish its relationship with the birth weight of their infants. The secondary objectives were to analyse demographic characteristics and their influence on maternal gestational weight gain and to determine other factors affecting the birth weight of the infant, in particular the mothers' nutritional status and the socio-cultural factors. To achieve these objectives, it was hypothesized that, there is a relationship between pregnancy weight gain, other obstetric factors with the birth weight of the infant. Other factors affecting infants' birth weight were hypothesized as the socio-cultural, nutritional and demographic factors. A descriptive survey was used to gather both qualitative and quantitative data from the district hospital. Non-probability sampling was used to select the sample for the study. Purposive sampling was used to select a sample of 149 pregnant women. This figure represents 10% of all the pregnant women who attended antenatal clinic in the year 2003. This included pregnant women at their third trimester who regularly attended antenatal clinic and delivered at the hospital. Mothers with complications during pregnancy, chronic illnesses and whose children had obvious congenital defects were excluded. A researcher-administered questionnaire was used to collect demographic characteristics, obstetric information, and dietary information during pregnancy and anthropometrics data of the pregnant women and infants weight at birth. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social scientists (SPSS) and the food UK 0.7 meter software. Spearman rho correlation was used to establish the co-relation between infant birth weight and maternal weight gain during the third trimester as well as the mother's energy intake 24 hours prior to the study. Krusal Walis on the other hand was used to establish the relationship between infant birth weight and the other variables. The findings of the study indicate that maternal gestational weight gain positively affects the birth weight of the infant at 0.05 level of significance. Of the other factors that influenced the infants' weight at birth were; mothers height, dietary intake and supplement use. The respondents first visit to the clinic, mother's income, age and education level and alcohol use during pregnancy were not proven significant. In this study 12.7% of the infants were of low birth weight. Based on the findings, a number of recommendations were finally suggested. They include need to use nutritious foods and regular assessment of the dietary intake of the pregnant mother, the need for the doctors/health care givers to closely monitor the maternal weight gain during the second and third trimesters. Early detection of poor maternal weight gain would enable doctors/health caregivers to initiate interventions that would have positive effects on the infants weight. As such, the issue of low birth weight infants should become a priority to policy makers.Item Iron dificiency anaemia and cognitive development of preschool children (4-5 years) in Goshi location, Malindi district, Kenya(2011-11-28) Karisa, Grace kadzicheIron deficiency anaemia is associated with comparatively poor performance in tests of mental and motor development in infants and toddlers and of intelligence and cognitive function in preschool children (Stoltzfus 2001). This study was aimed at investigating whether there was any association between iron deficiency anaemia and cognitive development of preschool children 4 to 5 years in Goshi location, Malindi District. The justification for this study came from studies done by Lozoff 2006 that have demonstrated that children who are anaemic perform poorly in tests that measure cognitive/intelligence level. Iron deficiency anaemia among the children was determined through dietary intake of iron rich foods using a 24 hour recall and food frequency questionnaires. Anthropometric measurements were also taken on the children. This was aimed at determining those that were normal, moderately underweight and severely underweight. Assessment of pallor of the palms and nail beds was done so as to assess anaemia status among the children. Haemoglobin analysis was further done on 15 children to verify the results of palmar pallor. Cognitive abilities of the children were determined by their performance on cognitive tests scores. The tests consisted of the Ravens' progressive matrices, the Peabody picture vocabulary testing and the one word picture vocabulary. Classroom observation was on the children in order to determine the extent to which they were able to pay attention to classroom tasks. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), and was presented using tables and graphs. Results indicated that iron deficiency anaemia was associated with cognitive abilities of preschool children in this area of study. Children who were non anaemic and well nourished had higher cognitive test scores as opposed to those who were severely anaemic and underweight. Pallor of the palms and nail beds was found to be an independent significant measure of iron deficiency anaemia especially severe iron deficiency anaemia. Dietary intake of foods that were rich in iron was found to influence body iron stores and hence presence or absence of anaemia among children. Nutritional status of the children was found to be a significant measure in predicting anaemia status because the children who were severely underweight were also found to be severely anaemic. Measure of vocabulary, picture recognition of simple nouns, sequence, perceptual and comprehension abilities were found to be significant measure of cognitive development among preschool children. Attention span to classroom tasks was also found to be a useful tool in measuring cognitive development. Intervening variables such as parents' economic status and literacy level were found to influence nutritional status and presence or absence of anaemia, and in general cognitive development of their children.Item Factors affecting the iron status of 15-49 years lactating and non-lactating mothers in Makongeni Thika distict, Kenya(2011-11-28) Gitau, Gladys Njura; Kimiywe, Judith; Waudo, Judith N.Iron deficiency is one of the most prevalent nutrient deficiencies in the world, affecting an estimated two billion people. Iron deficiency anaemia causes maternal deaths, decreased physical work and earning capacity, low birth weight and serious cognitive and psychomotor development in infants and children. In general, the 1999 national micro-nutrient survey found out that the prevalence of anaemia among the non- pregnant mothers was quite high in Kenya and in some clusters nearly half (41-50%) of the mothers were anaemic due to iron deficiency. Unfortunately,Thika was not included in this study. This study aimed to investigate the factors affecting the iron status of lactating and non-lactating mothers in Makongeni, Thika District.The objectives of the study were: -to establish haemoglobin levels of lactating and non-lactating mothers, to establish dietary iron intake of lactating and nonlactating mothers, to determine the factors that affect intake of dietary iron among lactating and non-lactating mothers, and to determine the relationship between the haemoglobin level and dietary iron intake of lactating and nonlactating mothers. The study was carried out in Thika district at Uzima Care Medical centre,a peri-urban area in Makongem estate of Thika Town. The study targeted one hundred lactating and one hundred non-lactating mothers. Socio-demographic, food security, food preparation and consumption patterns, health and sanitation and biochemical data were collected. This was a descriptive cross-sectional survey and an interview schedule was used to collect data including biochemical data on haemoglobin. Data were analysed using SPSS version 11.5, MS Excel and dietary analysis software (Food metres UK 7) for nutrient composition. The 24hr dietary recall and food frequency was used to determine the dietary iron intake. A cut-off of <7g/dl as severe anaemia, 7-10.9g/dl as moderate anaemia, 10.8-11.9g/dl as mild anaemia and 12-16g/dl as normal was used to categorise the haemoglobin levels.The diets of the respondents consisted of plant foods and less intake of animal protein. Iron was significantly related to all vitamins, with the strongest correlation being thiamine(r=0.833, p<0.01). The weakest correlation for iron was carotene (r= 034, p<0.01). Iron indicated a positive significant correlation with most minerals, including calcium (r-0.341, p<0.01, zinc (r= 0.785, p<0.01), and selenium (r=0.503, P<0.05). Copper relationships were not significant. The study revealed that lactating mothers had haemoglobin levels ranging from 7-14 g/dl, while the non-lactating mothers had 9-15 g/dl. On average, lactating mothers had a lower mean (12.1 +l.lg /dl) than nonlactating mothers (12.4 +l.lg/dl. From the findings 25% had mild anaemia (10.9-11.9g/dl) and 8.5% had moderate anaemia (7-10.8g/dl). Mild anaemia (33%), moderate anaemia (17 %), and severe anaemia (1%) was prevalent in the lactating mothers, as compared to 29% mild anaemia and 15% moderate anaemia in non-lactating mothers after altitude adjustment at a calculated factor 0.5 for Thika altitude (1700m ASL). In the past, nutritional studies have placed emphasis on rural population only. An increasing proportion of the population now lives in per'-urban and urban areas and it is important to recognise the critical health care requirements of people living in these settings. The present study, therefore emphasizes the need for a comprehensive intervention strategy, which should include both the nutritional and health strategies to improve the iron status of the population.