Food intake of pregnant women: A study among the pregnant women of a tertiary care hospital in Ajmer, Rajasthan, India

Abstract

 Introduction: Nutritional diet is an important pillar of good health during pregnancy. 
A healthy diet is essential for every pregnant woman especially for the development of foetus. 
Knowledge and importance about healthy diet is essential for them as they are responsible for 
the growth of their foetus and her own health in order to prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes. 

Objective: To determine the association between intake of nutritional diet and personal habits 
among pregnant women.

Methods: A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted among the 
pregnant women of a tertiary care hospital of Ajmer. The study included 975 pregnant women. A 
structured interview questionnaire composed which contained questions regarding their dietary 
intake. They were asked about the amount of food they consumed and their use of fast food, 
alcohol, tobacco and sugary snacks. The data collected was tabulated and analyzed.

Results: 
The study revealed that 72.2% of the interviewed women were aged 25-30 years, 66.5% of them 
were from rural area. Illiterate women represented 35.6% of the studied group. 87.6% of the 
pregnant women were housewives. Intake of fewer servings than the recommended amount in all 
food groups was recorded. Pregnant women frequently reduced intake of foods. Due to nausea 
and vomiting, many pregnant women refused to take proper nutritional diet. Only 58.6% of 
pregnant women consumed fruits and green vegetables. Majority (52.3%) of pregnant women 
show high consumption of fast food and sweets. Most of the rural pregnant women used tobacco 
products which are harmful for their baby. 43.6% pregnant women consumed carbonated drinks 
instead of fruit juices. Many women used sour, spicy and chilled food due to pregnancy cravings. 
Only 31.3% of pregnant women consumed milk and sprouts. Positive attitude toward nutritional 
diet was significantly higher among urban, educated, working and prim gravidae pregnant 
women (p=0.0001). Conclusion: The study showed that majority (62%) of pregnant women have 
poor dietary intake with many lacunae present. The different factors responsible for it were 
determined. Pregnant women can potentially improve their food habits by modifying their 
lifestyle and following healthier nutritional practices. A better dietary knowledge is necessary 
for the pregnant women.