A comparison of diets, exercise patterns and postpartum weight retention based on levels of acculturation in Mexican immigrants and Mexican American women

Abstract

Prevalence of overweight Mexican women in the U.S. has increased. Pregnancy‐related weight gain has emerged as a cause of obesity. This study compares dietary intake, physical activity, energy balance, and postpartum weight retention in low and high acculturated postpartum Mexican immigrants and Mexican American women, and determines variables that may predict postpartum weight retention. Dietary and activity recall, a food frequency, and demographic questionnaire were collected from 67 subjects 6–12 months postpartum, at a community clinic. Language determined level of acculturation (Marin and Marin, 1991). Food Processor 8.0, SPSS 14.0, and Minitab 15.0 were used for analysis. There was no significant difference in calorie intake or energy balance between the low (n=33) and high (n=34) acculturation groups. The high acculturation group ate more calories from fat (p=0.000), expended more energy (p= 0.032 for basal metabolic rate; p= 0.000 for physical activity and specific dynamic action of food), and retained less weight postpartum (9.54 pounds). Variables predicting postpartum weight retention were employment, daily physical activity, pre‐pregnancy BMI, and energy expenditure. Results prove that health programs for postpartum Mexican women in the U.S. be designed based on acculturation level. All postpartum women should reduce calorie intake and increase physical activity for weight management.