Investigation Into Factors Associated With The Dietary Intake of Pregnant Women and Nursing Mothers In Ibadan Southwest Local Governmen

Abstract

In order to maintain the health and wellbeing of both the mother and the unborn child, proper diet is absolutely essential during pregnancy and nursing. However, a number of variables can affect a pregnant woman's and a nursing mother's dietary consumption, which may have an impact on their nutritional status. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the factors influencing dietary intake of pregnant women and nursing mothers in Ibadan southwest local government. 365 responders in total were recruited. A cross-sectional study design was used. A semi- Structured questionnaires were used to gather information on food habits, body measurements, household factors, environmental factors, cultural attitudes, and nutrition knowledge. The frequencies, means, and proportions of the relevant variables were presented. The mean age of the respondents was 31.08±6.72 years, with the majority falling within the age range of 35-39 years. Most respondents were married (87.4%) and had tertiary education (59.2%). The findings revealed that 55.3% of the respondents did not take dietary supplements during pregnancy/lactation. The main meals consumed were bread and stew/egg for breakfast, snacks and soft drinks for lunch, and swallow and soup for dinner. While the majority of the respondents consumed essential food groups, 34.5% exhibited poor dietary practices. Furthermore, a significant proportion of the respondents were classified as overweight (29.6%) or obese (35.6%). Environmental factors, such as the prices of foodstuff and cultural beliefs, living with a partner (COR = 6.503; AOR = 6.487), being self-employed (AOR - 0.549), being unemployed (AOR = 0.228) and earning above N75,000 (COR =6.109, AOR = 8.583) influence the dietary patterns of the respondents. The study emphasizes the necessity for pregnant women and nursing moms who visit PHC centers to have better eating habits and nutritional awareness. The necessity of a balanced diet, which includes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and protein sources, should be the main focus of nutrition education initiatives aimed towards these groups. Additionally, steps should be taken to remove cultural prejudices and environmental obstacles that could prevent healthy dietary intake. Healthcare practitioners can help to improve the health of expectant mothers, nursing mothers, and their infants by addressing these variables.