Food diversity and nutrient intake during pregnancy in relation to maternal weight gain

Abstract

BackgroundInadequate gestational weight gain has become a major problem for Algerian women and this is due to inadequate maternal nutrient intake and lack of food diversity. Our objective was to assess the caloric and nutrient intake, the nutritional adequacy of the diet of women during pregnancy and to appreciate their effects on gestational weight gain. MethodsA prospective cohort study of 300 pregnant women aged 19 to 43 years was conducted, from December 2013 to July 2016. Maternal age, parity, educational level, household income and pre-pregnancy body mass index were collected. Gestational weight gain was calculated and classified according to the IOM recommendations. Participants were asked to report the frequency of consumption of foods and beverages in the last trimester of gestation. Also, the estimation of energy and nutrient intakes was made by a three-day dietary record. Statistics were performed using StatviewTM and SPSS software. ResultsIntakes of energy, vitamines and minerals of women with insufficient weight gain were less than that of women with normal and excessive gain (P<0.0001). Milk and dairy products (P=0.0009), fruits and vegetables (P=0.03), meats, fish and eggs (P=0.0049) were significantly less consumed by women with insufficient gain. The lowest food diversification was more observed in women with insufficient gestational weight gain. ConclusionMost of the pregnant women had a poorly diversified diet and especially women with insufficient weight gain. Also, the intakes of energy, vitamins and minerals of women with insufficient gain were the lowest.