Dietary diversity and micronutrient rich food consumption patterns among women of reproductive age in Kayunga and Jinja, Uganda

Abstract

The diets of women of reproductive age (WRA) in low-income countries have been reported to be inadequate in micronutrients which lead to undernutrition. The foods commonly consumed by women are usually starchy plant-based cereals, roots and tubers which are limited in micronutrients. Amidst Uganda producing abundance of fruits and vegetables which are sources of micronutrients, it seems that consumption patterns have a role to play. The aim of this study was, therefore, to evaluate the prevailing diets of women of reproductive age in Kayunga and Jinja districts. A cross- sectional study was conducted in August 2019. Four hundred and ninety two (492) women of reproductive age were purposively selected from the two sub-counties to participate in the study. A 24-hour recall questionnaire was used estimate the women’s minimum dietary diversity for women of reproductive age (MDD-W) and it is contribution towards meeting micronutrient requirements. Means were computed for continuous variables, while proportions were computed for the descriptive variables that were placed under different themes and categories. Results revealed that more than 80% of women did not achieve the minimum dietary diversity. Less than 50% of the women consumed foods from plant and animal protein rich food groups that are major sources of iron, zinc, calcium, and vitamin B-12. In addition, more than 80% of the women’s diets lacked vitamin A- rich fruits and vegetables and dark green leafy vegetables which are the rich food group sources for vitamin A and folate. Therefore, over 80% of the women in Kayunga and Jinja districts did not obtain the required micronutrients for their good health and that of their children and thus, are at risk of poor health due to micronutrient deficiencies. It is recommended to have nutrition education coupled with demonstrations to mothers on how to prepare a diversified diet. Key words: Women, dietary diversity, food groups, micronutrients, nutrient adequacy