Dietary Diversity, nutrient intake and nutritional status among pregnant women in Laikipia County, Kenya
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Date
2016
Authors
Kiboi, Willy
Kimiywe, Judith
Chege, Peter
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Abstract
Background/Aim: Pregnancy is a critical period during which adequate nutrition is considered an
important factor that affects birth outcome and the health of the mother. Maternal diets during
pregnancy have thus been deemed critical since the diet must meet the nutrient requirement for both
the child and the mother for satisfactory birth outcome. Research has clearly shown that a diverse diet
is strongly associated with nutrient adequacy and better maternal nutritional status. The purpose of
this study was to assess dietary diversity, nutrient intake and nutritional status among pregnant women
in Laikipia County, Kenya.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study. The study comprised of 254 pregnant women
attending antenatal clinic at Nanyuki Teaching and Referral Hospital.
Results: The study revealed that the mean Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) was 6.84 ± 1.46 SD The
mean intake of energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat, zinc, iron, folate and vitamin C was inadequate
while those of Vitamin A and calcium were adequate. In respect to nutritional status, 19.3% were
undernourished based on Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) while 16.9% were anemic based
on haemoglobin levels. The result further showed that dietary diversity was positively correlated with
nutrient intake and nutritional status.
Conclusion: Dietary diversity is crucial in ensuring adequate nutrient intake and nutritional status
among pregnant women
Description
Research article
Keywords
Dietary Diversity, Nutrient Intake, Nutritional Status, Pregnant Women
Citation
International Journal of Health Sciences & Research (www.ijhsr.org) Vol.6; Issue: 4; p. 378- 385 April 2016