Eating habits and behaviors of anemic pregnant women in Niger

Abstract

An adequate diet, in terms of both quantity and quality, is a fundamental factor for a healthy pregnancy, for maternal health and for the unborn child. It is therefore essential to assess the dietary intake of pregnant women and compare it with international recommendations. This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in regions with a high prevalence of anemia in Niger, among 380 anemic pregnant women, to assess their dietary habits and behaviors using the food frequency method and the dietary diversity score. The results showed that almost 90% of anemic pregnant women had fewer meals per day than recommended. The majority of women often skipped breakfast (48.2%), lunch (52.6%) or dinner (51.9%). Snacking between meals is almost non-existent, as some 53.2% to 64.5% had no snacks during the last seven (7) days of the week. Their daily diet was based on the consumption of local cereals and dark green leafy vegetables (baobab leaves). The average dietary diversity score was 3.5, which is poor. Only 48.5% have at least an average consumption of four food groups. Consumption of meat, fish, eggs, milk and dairy products (rich in bio-available iron) remain very low, and that of fruit and vegetables is limited. Overall, the dietary intake of pregnant women with anemia does not comply with nutritional recommendations.

Keywords: Dietary diversification, food consumption, pregnant women, anemia, Niger