Descriptive Study on Dietary Pattern and Health Status of Adolescents from Rural Bengaluru

Abstract

Background: Changing lifestyle and food consumption patterns have greater impact on the health status of adolescents including rural, urban and peri-urban areas. Adolescents are vulnerable age group and needs special attention to meet the daily recommended nutrient intakes, especially as it lays foundation for the adult life. Thus, this study was planned to document the sociodemographic and food consumption pattern of adolescents residing in rural Bengaluru. Methods: A semi-structured questionnaire was designed based on pilot-study to collect data on the anthropometric profile, socioeconomic status and food consumption pattern. The data was calculated for the per cent adequacy for nutrients and food intake. Result: The data suggested that majority (80%) respondents belonged to lower middle class and only 12-16% were from upper lower class. Sixty-eight per cent respondents had normal BMI while still 29 per cent were underweight. Skipping meals was noted more in adolescent girls than boys. The per cent nutrient adequacy was more for macronutrients, while less for micronutrients; however, the calcium adequacy was higher due to regular finger millet consumption.