Determinants of dietary diversity and nutrient adequacy among post‐partum mothers in rural Kenya

Abstract

We examined dietary diversity and nutrient adequacy among post‐partum HIV‐ and HIV+ mothers in rural Kenya. One 24‐hour recall was administered to assess 301 mothers’ dietary intake in July‐August 2009. Information on socio‐economic, demographic and health factors were collected through interviews. A dietary diversity score was developed based on a minimum intake of 15 grams of each of the food groups: cereals/tubers; dark‐green leafy vegetables; vitamin A‐rich fruits/vegetables; other fruits/vegetables; dairy; meat/fish/poultry; eggs and legumes/nuts. Mean nutrient density ratio (MDR) was calculated as an average of the density ratios (truncated at 100%) of available iron, available zinc, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, riboflavin, folate, niacin, thiamin, vitamin C and vitamin E. Mother's diet was predominantly cereal‐based, lacked diversity and the MDR was only 50 percent. Mother's self‐perception of health status, mothers’ social interaction and household socio‐economic status and size were significantly associated with dietary diversity and MDR. High consumption of vitamin A‐rich and other fruits and vegetables and dairy and meat foods were significant predictors of MDR. Dark‐green leafy vegetables and legumes consumption did not predict MDR. This analysis contributes to the understanding of dietary practices and nutritional status of post‐partum mothers in Africa.