Abstract
Over the last few decades, there have been significant dietary and lifestyle changes worldwide. In Morocco, these changes have led to serious nutritional disorders and increased risk of morbidity and mortality particularly among vulnerable groups such as women of childbearing age. We aimed to assess the average daily energy and macronutrient intakes and to investigate their association with socioeconomic factors and weight status among women aged 19–49 years in urban areas. A total of 542 women attending public health centers were recruited. Socioeconomic and demographic data were collected using a questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements were taken using standardized equipment. Food consumption data were obtained through the 24-hour dietary recall method, and the macronutrient composition of foods was estimated based on the Moroccan food composition table and the Nutrilog software. The average daily energy intake among the study population was 1591 kcal, composed of 56% from carbohydrates, 28% from fats, and 16% from protein. Reported energy intake by the majority of women (81.5%) was lower than recommended daily allowances for energy. There was a significant positive correlation between educational level and energy (p=0.001), carbohydrates (p=0.001), proteins (p=0.004), and fats intakes (p=0.032), respectively. A significant negative association of household size with protein intakes was also observed (p=0.034). Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats intakes tended to decrease; however, these associations were not statistically significant. Further studies and appropriate interventions are needed to address the trends in energy and macronutrients intakes in the development of policy initiatives aimed at nutrition education and chronic disease prevention among childbearing age women.
Highlights
Malnutrition is defined as deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in individuals’ intake of energy and/or nutrients [1]
Demographic and Socioeconomic Characteristics. e demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the study population are presented in Table 1. e majority of women had Arab ethnic background (77.1%)
Half of women (50%) had 1 to 2 children while most families (72.0%) were composed of 4 to 7 people. e monthly expenditure was less than US$ 366 in 56.5% of the study population, and more than 66% spent less than US$ 272.32 per month for food
Summary
Malnutrition is defined as deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in individuals’ intake of energy and/or nutrients [1]. A balanced diet can be achieved when the total energy intake is covered at 10 to 15% from protein, 15 to 30%. Malnutrition is characterized by an inadequate intake of protein, energy, or micronutrients, aggravated by frequent infections or diseases [4, 5]. It is currently the most serious nutritional problem in many countries in Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa [6]. Infants, children, and adolescents are most exposed to malnutrition [1]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
