Iron-rich Foods Research Articles

Anaemia and its Determinants Among Pregnant Women: A Study in Urban Slums of Kolkata Metro City

Anemia among pregnant women remains a significant public health concern, particularly in urban slum areas where access to healthcare and proper nutrition is often limited. Iron deficiency anemia is a pervasive issue, particularly impacting pregnant women and adolescent girls, considered by the World Health Organization with hemoglobin levels below 11 g/dl. On a global scale, as of 2019, 37% of pregnant women and 30% of women aged 15 to 49 experience anemia. NFHS-5 data reveals that the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in urban areas of India stands at 45.7%. This study explores the multifaceted factors influencing the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women residing in the urban slums of Kolkata, India. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to comprehensively assess the determinants of anemia among pregnant women in the Urban slums of Kolkata. Quantitative data collection involves structured surveys administered to pregnant women, focusing on socio-demographic characteristics, dietary habits, access to healthcare services, and knowledge of anemia prevention and management. Qualitative interviews delve deeper into the experiences and perceptions of pregnant women regarding anemia, exploring cultural beliefs, social norms, and barriers to accessing healthcare services. Additionally, healthcare providers and community health workers contribute insights into the challenges faced in addressing anemia in urban slum settings. Preliminary findings suggest that several interconnected factors contribute to the high prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in urban slum areas of Kolkata. These include inadequate antenatal care, limited availability of iron-rich foods, poor sanitation and hygiene practices, cultural beliefs surrounding pregnancy and nutrition, and socio-economic constraints. The study underscores the importance of multi-sectoral interventions aimed at addressing the complex determinants of anemia among pregnant women in urban slums. Effective strategies may involve improving access to antenatal care services, promoting nutrition education and supplementation, enhancing sanitation infrastructure, and fostering community engagement to challenge harmful cultural norms. By elucidating the nuanced factors influencing anemia in this vulnerable population, this research seeks to inform targeted interventions and policies aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes in urban slum areas of Kolkata and similar settings worldwide.

IMPACT OF DIET AND LIFESTYLE ON AGE OF MENARCHE

Menarche is a medical term that describes a woman's first menstrual period, marking the onset of menstruation and reproductive maturity. Menarche typically occurs during adolescence, usually between the age of 10 to 16 years. Various factors, including genetics, nutrition, body weight, and overall health, influence the onset of menarche. The impact of diet and lifestyle on the age of menarche in adolescent subjects was studied. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, involving a minimum of 203 subjects in and around Vijayanagar, Bangalore. Subjects were categorized into three groups based on the age at which they attained menarche: Group 1 (before 12 years), Group 2 (between 12-14 years), and Group 3 (above 14 years). Results of this survey showed a varied distribution of age of menarche: 8.0 % below 12 years of age group, 80 % between the age group 12-14, and 12 % above 14 years of age group. The dietary habits and consumption of ksheera (milk), ghrita (ghee), junk foods, caffeine, iron-rich foods, and water intake were examined, and other factors such as menarcheal age and status of agni ( digestive fire), samashana (eating wholesome an unwholesome food together), ajeernashana (eating without the previous meal getting digested), adhyasana (eating excess), guru ahara (heavy food), sheeta ahara ( cold food), virudda aahara (food having opposite potentials), exercise, emotional resilience, co-curricular activities, use of antibiotics, stress relation, exposure to sunlight of the subjects were also evaluated. The survey findings highlight diverse menarcheal ages, suggesting potential links with diet and lifestyle.

Diet quality and nutritional status of HIV-exposed children aged between 6 and 18 months in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

IntroductionHIV-exposed children, even when uninfected, have a greater risk of malnutrition than unexposed counterparts. WHO guidelines recommend children aged 6–23 months be fed a variety of foods to meet nutrient requirements. This study aimed to determine infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices among HIV-exposed children under 2 years old enrolled in a dietary intervention and to explore correlates of the IYCF indicators and associations between IYCF and nutritional status.MethodologySix hundred and eighty mother–child pairs were recruited from 19 health facilities from the Greater Accra Region. The sociodemographic data, anthropometry, hemoglobin, and dietary intake were recorded.ResultsNinety-five percent of HIV-positive mothers breastfed their babies, and 53% initiated breastfeeding in a timely manner. Around one in five mothers (21%) introduced liquids other than breastmilk to their children within the first 2 days of birth, and only around one in four children (26%) aged 12–23 months had received breast milk on the day before assessment. Ninety-three percent of babies between 6 and 8 months had been introduced to solid, semi-solid, or soft foods. Eighteen percent of children reached the threshold for Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) by eating from over five of eight food groups. Fifty-four percent received Minimum Meal Frequency (MMF), eating between 2 and 4 meals in a day. Eleven percent received the Minimum Acceptable Diet (MAD). Thirty-two percent were anemic. Underweight and stunting were 12 and 11%, respectively. Children of mothers aged 31–40 years were more likely to meet the MDD and MAD [OR = 2.8, 95%CI (1.185, 6.519), p < 0.05 and OR = 2.8, 95%CI (1.256, 6.279), p < 0.05] compared to children of mothers aged 30 years or less or aged above 40 years. Children from households earning more than GHS 500 were more likely to meet MMF than those from households earning less. No associations were found between IYCF and nutritional status.ConclusionFindings highlight the need for nutrition programs to educate HIV-exposed children’s caregivers on optimal feeding practices. The importance of continued breastfeeding and dietary diversity needs to be highlighted. Affordable, iron-rich foods should be promoted. Special attention should be paid to younger, less educated, and lower socioeconomic status mothers.

Factors associated with anaemia among pregnant women in Rwanda: an analysis of the Rwanda demographic and health survey of 2020

BackgroundAnaemia in pregnancy is associated with several adverse outcomes for mothers and newborns, as well as their families. In this study, we assessed the prevalence of anaemia and the associated factors among pregnant women in Rwanda.MethodsSecondary data from the 2020 Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey (RDHS) was used. Multistage stratified sampling was used to select 435 pregnant women included in the study. Anaemia among pregnant women was defined as a haemoglobin value < 11 g/dL. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the associated factors with anaemia in pregnancy, using SPSS (version 26).ResultsOf the 435 pregnant women, 24.6% (95%CI: 21.1–29.3) were anaemic (1 in 4 pregnant women). Not working (AOR = 2.45; 95%CI: 1.14–5.26), being unmarried (AOR = 1.23; 95%CI: 1.24–3.57), low wealth index (AOR = 9.19; 95%CI: 1.64–51.56), having difficulty accessing a nearby health facility (AOR = 5.40; 95%CI: 2.21–13.23), and normal body mass index (AOR = 3.33; 95%CI: 1.46–7.59) were associated with higher odds of being anaemic. However, not taking iron supplements (AOR = 0.16; 95% CI: 0.04–0.67), having no exposure to television (AOR = 0.35; 95%CI: 0.14–0.91), being from the southern region (AOR = 0.14; 95% CI: 0.03–0.66), and low husband/partner’s education (AOR = 0.08; 95% CI: 0.01–0.59) were associated with lower odds of being anaemic.ConclusionsThe study findings indicate a high prevalence of anaemia in pregnancy, which was associated with several socio-demographics. There is a need for setting up mobile clinics and health facilities in hard-to-reach areas for easy accessibility to early anaemia screening services. Conducting mass screening for anaemia targeting pregnant women who are not working, the unmarried, and those with a low wealth index would also be beneficial. The intake of locally available iron rich foods and/ or bio-fortified foods is also recommended.

Complementary feeding practices of caregivers of infants with Down syndrome as compared to caregivers of typically developing infants

Caregiver feeding practices during the complementary feeding period (6 months–2 years) may be particularly important for infants with Down syndrome (DS) as they are at higher risk for later health conditions (e.g., obesity, diabetes) that can be influenced by early feeding practices. However, how well caregivers of infants with DS are meeting infant feeding evidence-based practices is relatively unknown. Caregivers of infants with DS (N = 75) and caregivers of typically developing (TD) infants (N = 66) aged 0–2 years completed an online survey about their infant feeding practices and information sources. Caregiver practices and information sources were statistically compared between groups. Results indicated that there are significant differences in the feeding practices of caregivers of infants with DS when compared to caregivers of TD infants. Caregivers of infants with DS were less likely to meet infant feeding evidence-based practices than caregivers of TD infants. Caregivers of infants with DS were also more concerned about their infant's food intake and later weight status. Some individual feeding practices also significantly differed between groups, with caregivers of infants with DS more likely to meet evidence-based practices of purchasing iron rich foods and avoiding added salt, but less likely to use responsive feeding practices than caregivers of TD infants. Caregivers of infants with DS were also less likely to receive information about how to navigate the complementary feeding period than caregivers of TD infants. Coupled with existing research, the results of the present study suggest that infant feeding evidence-based practices should be reviewed for their appropriateness for this population and additional support for caregivers of infants with DS should be implemented to help them navigate this important period.

Junk food use and neurodevelopmental and growth outcomes in infants in low-resource settings.

Feeding infants a sub-optimal diet deprives them of critical nutrients for their physical and cognitive development. The objective of this study is to describe the intake of foods of low nutritional value (junk foods) and identify the association with growth and developmental outcomes in infants up to 18 months in low-resource settings. This is a secondary analysis of data from an iron-rich complementary foods (meat versus fortified cereal) randomized clinical trial on nutrition conducted in low-resource settings in four low- and middle-income countries (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guatemala, Pakistan, and Zambia). Mothers in both study arms received nutritional messages on the importance of exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months with continued breastfeeding up to at least 12 months. This study was designed to identify the socio-demographic predictors of feeding infants' complementary foods of low nutritional value (junk foods) and to assess the associations between prevalence of junk food use with neurodevelopment (assessed with the Bayley Scales of Infant Development II) and growth at 18 months. 1,231 infants were enrolled, and 1,062 (86%) completed the study. Junk food feeding was more common in Guatemala, Pakistan, and Zambia than in the Democratic Republic of Congo. 7% of the infants were fed junk foods at 6 months which increased to 70% at 12 months. Non-exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months, higher maternal body mass index, more years of maternal and paternal education, and higher socioeconomic status were associated with feeding junk food. Prevalence of junk foods use was not associated with adverse neurodevelopmental or growth outcomes. The frequency of consumption of junk food was high in these low-resource settings but was not associated with adverse neurodevelopment or growth over the study period.

Nutritional experiences of postpartum mothers - A qualitative study.

The postpartum period is crucial for both mother and infant as additional maternal nutrition needs to support the needs of self and that of an infant in the form of adequate breastfeeding. The dietary choices of women during the postpartum period were heavily influenced by traditional cultural beliefs surrounding these periods. To explore the experiences regarding postpartum nutrition and various nutritional practices during this period. The study was a community-based cross-sectional qualitative study performed in the urban field practicing area of Government Medical College during the months of October and November 2022 on postnatal mothers who have crossed not more than one month of completion of their postpartum period (first six weeks of delivery). Two focus group discussions (FGDs) and 15 in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with the postnatal mothers and their caregivers using a pre-prepared semi-structured discussion guide comprising open-ended questions. Each interview/discussion was recorded electronically after taking verbal consent. The recorded responses were transcribed verbatim and translated into English. The data were analyzed thematically and were grouped into a few broad themes. Most mothers followed strict dietary restrictions for the first 15 days of delivery. Fruits were avoided by many of the mothers. The mothers took iron-rich foods like jaggery and green leafy vegetables in excess. Protein-rich foods like meat, egg, fish, and dal were avoided by most of the mothers. The beliefs of the mothers and caregivers about various food items were that they may cause ill health to mother and baby, considered as hot and cold foods and also out of ignorance. Most of the practices were beneficial to the mother and a few of them were harmful like avoiding protein-rich foods, few vegetables, most fruits, and night meals. The harmful nutritional practices can be addressed by educating the mother and also the caregiver who prepares the puerperal diet.

The effect of motivation type on intake and nutritional status of vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, iron and nutrition knowledge in individuals following a vegan diet

The fundamental principle of veganism is to avoid all possible animal exploitation and therefore, animal ethics has always been a primary motivator. Nowadays, the environment and health are also common motivators. Omission of all animal products leads to dietary exclusion of vitamin B12, limited intake of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, and intake of low bioavailable iron sources1. Obtaining the knowledge to appropriately plan and replace nutrients through food or supplementation is key to avoiding deficiencies and subsequent consequences. This study aimed to determine the effect of motivation for being vegan on intake of key nutrients and nutritional knowledge. This cross-sectional, observational study recruited participants, who had followed a vegan diet for minimum 2 years. Demographics and nutrition knowledge were obtained from questionnaires. Motivation type was determined using the validated vegetarian eating motives inventory (VEMI) – participants scored the importance of animal ethic, environment and health. Intakes of vitamin B12 and iron, were collected using a 4-day food diary and assessed against Estimated Average Requirement (EAR). Blood samples were taken to determine status of vitamin B12, haemoglobin, serum ferritin, and omega-3 index. Omega-3 index score ≤4 indicates increased risk of coronary heart disease. Animal ethics was the greatest motivator to become vegan, with 83.5% of participants scoring it as very important, compared to 71.7% of people stating the environment, and 53.3% stating health. No association was found between all motivation types and intake of vitamin B12 and iron, nor omega-3 index. Mean vitamin B12 intake (supplements excluded) of 2.11ug/day ± 3.43 exceeded the EAR of 2.0ug/day for both men and women, however intakes ranged between 0.00 and 37.63ug/day. Mean intake of iron (18.77mg/day) exceeded the EAR for both men and women. Overall mean omega-3 index was 3.16%. Both men (162.24g/L) and women (151.44g/L) had adequate mean Hb serum concentrations. Mean serum ferritin was within normal range for both men (64.86ug/L ± 43.48) and women (32.55ug/L ± 26.04). Overall mean serum vitamin B12 was within normal range (316.54pmol/L ± 146.18), however a large range was observed from 72.00pmol/L to 1,015pmol/L. Males and females had similar knowledge, with only one question regarding fibre content in cornflakes found to be significantly different (P = 0.012). Knowledge was varied e.g., 100% of participants could identify that pasta was a carbohydrate source, yet could not identify which fats are most important to reduce. Mean vitamin B12 intake exceeding EAR and normal status despite limited vegan sources, indicates high consumption of high bioavailable fortified foods, and supplementation. Iron status shows large consumption of iron rich foods to overcome bioavailability issues, reflected by adequate iron intake, after increasing EAR by 80% to meet recommendations. The mean omega-3 index shows a low cardioprotective omega-3 fatty acid intake.

Factors associated with dietary iron intakes among pregnant women in Ifako-Ijaiye, Lagos, Nigeria

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) in pregnancy is a significant public health problem worldwide, but little is known about factors associated with dietary iron intake among pregnant women especially from low- and middle-income countries(3). This study assessed factors associated with dietary iron intake among pregnant women attending primary health centres in Ifako-Ijaiye Lagos, Nigeria. Sociodemographic information and dietary intakes were elicited from 432 apparently healthy singleton pregnant women using a pre-tested questionnaire and 24 hour- dietary recall, respectively. Dietary iron intakes was estimated from foods and drinks reported using the West African Food Composition Table and adjusted for energy intakes using the residual method(1). Chi-square test and one-way ANOVA was used to compare categorical and continuous variables respectively by tertiles of energy-adjusted dietary iron intakes at a two-sided P&lt;0.05(2).Mean age and dietary iron intake was 28.5 ± 4.6years and 20.3 ± 3.3mg/day, respectively for all respondents. Energy-adjusted iron intakes by tertiles of energy-adjusted dietary intakes were; 16.6 ± 1.4mg/day for the first tertile, 19.7± 1.0mg/day for the second tertile and 23.7 ± 2.0mg/day for the third tertile. Age, gestational age, parity, education, marital status, and income differed insignificantly by tertiles of energy-adjusted dietary iron intakes. Current evidence suggests a statistically insignificant association between sociodemographic factors and dietary iron intakes in this sample, but further studies are vital for designing culturally relevant interventions to promote the consumption of iron-rich foods among women in this population.

IJCM_66A: Beliefs, perceptions, and practices of mothers of under-five children towards control of childhood anemia in selected urban and rural areas of Puducherry – An explanatory mixed methods study.

Background: Anaemia is a significant public health issue that affects different age groups, mainly children under five. A mother’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices are often associated with the health status of children Objective: The study aimed to assess mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards childhood anaemia control, the status of IFA consumption among under-five children in Puducherry, and explore socio-cultural beliefs and perceptions about childhood anaemia. Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in selected urban and rural areas, where Anganwadi centres were selected through simple random sampling. A pre-validated semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from mothers of children under five. In-depth interviews were conducted to explore socio-cultural beliefs and perceptions of childhood anaemia. Results: According to the study, the majority of participants were aware of the causes (89.5%) and symptoms (90.3%) of anaemia, as well as the consequences during pregnancy (80.7%) and child growth risks (72.3%). However, the knowledge of health risks to the child if the mother is anaemic during pregnancy was known to only 64.0% of mothers. While most participants were aware of iron-rich foods, the knowledge of the practice of providing these foods was less widespread. Additionally, only 28.4% of children receive adequate IFA supplements. Conclusion: Though knowledge, attitude, and practices have improved, they are still inadequate to reduce the anaemia burden. Only one in three children received adequate IFA supplements. Adherence to the correct dosage of IFA supplementation needs further awareness and emphasis.

Dietary diversity and its determinants among women of reproductive age residing in the urban area of Nouakchott, Mauritania

BackgroundThe intake of nutrient-rich foods from diverse diets ensures adequate nutrition for women. This study aims to determine dietary diversity among women of reproductive age (WRA) using the MDD-W indicator and how it relates to their socio-economic characteristics in the city of Nouakchott, Mauritania.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 240 women of reproductive age, aged 15–49 years. Food consumption data were obtained through unquantified 24 h recall which is designed to identify all foods consumed by the women during this period. We computed MDD-W as the consumption of at least five out of ten predefined food groups according to the guideline of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. In order to determine which factors had a statistically significant influence on dietary diversity among women, we used a value of P < 0.05.ResultsThe mean of dietary diversity was 5.48 and 71.7% of WRA had an acceptable minimum dietary diversity. During the study period, 96.25% and 80% of women consumed vitamin A and iron-rich foods respectively. The consumption rate of starchy foods, vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables, meat, fish and chicken, milk and dairy products, dark green leafy vegetables and finally other vegetables was higher; 99.6%, 75.3%, 80%, 62.5%, 60.4% and 83.3% respectively. On the other hand, the consumption of legumes, eggs and other fruits was low; at 21.7%, 14.2% and 13.8% respectively.ConclusionsThe study showed that more than half of the studied population had an acceptable minimum dietary diversity. The diet was mainly based on the consumption of starchy foods, meat and other vegetables than those rich in vitamin A.

The Experience of Anaemia and Ingesting Oral Iron Supplementation in Pregnancy: A Qualitative Study

IntroductionThe objective of this study was to understand the experience of iron deficiency anaemia requiring oral iron in pregnancy and the factors affecting compliance with oral iron supplementation. Participants’ understanding regarding the possible consequences of anaemia in pregnancy was also explored. Feedback on a proposed randomised controlled trial of daily versus alternate day oral iron in pregnancy was sought. Materials & methodsFollowing ethical approval, fourteen semi-structured one-to-one interviews were carried out using an interview tool with open-ended questions. Recruitment was carried out through social media and from an antenatal out-patient setting. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically. ResultsFatigue emerged as a predominant and troubling symptom. Awareness was often highlighted through friends/family and from healthcare professionals, particularly in first pregnancies. Knowledge surrounding the potential short-term and long-term adverse consequences of untreated anaemia however was limited.Gastro-intestinal side-effects, a previous experience of poor tolerance and forgetfulness all negatively impacted compliance with oral iron supplementation in pregnancy. Routine, a perceived improvement in fatigue with supplementation and reduced dose frequency recurred as themes which positively affected compliance.Pregnancy as a motivating factor recurred as a theme in analysis. The role of diet was felt to be important. Knowledge of iron-rich foods and absorption aids and inhibitors was good, but practice on optimal ingestion of oral iron supplementation varied.Feedback on trial acceptability was positive with the benefit of extra supportive care noted. Incorporating study visits with routine care was advised in view of time constraints. This area of research was perceived as important. ConclusionIn order to successfully reduce the rates of iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy, it is crucial that all factors affecting compliance with oral iron are considered. Providing women with the important information on the possible consequences of sub optimally treated anaemia may help to improve this public health issue.

Determinants Influencing the Consumption of Iron-Rich Foods among Senegalese Young Children: A Path Analysis

Background: Anaemia is a public health concern among Senegalese children aged 6-59 months old. One of the potential causes of this situation is the low consumption of iron-rich foods (IRF). Understanding factors that influence the provision of IRF among young children could help prevent and control anemia. Using the extended version of the theory of planned behavior (eTPB), this nationwide study examines psychosocial and environmental determinants of the consumption of IRF in children aged 6-23 months.&#x0D; Methods and Materials: To this end, an existing questionnaire used for the same purpose was reviewed and re-validated. Using data collected among 418 children's caregivers on each construct of the eTPB, pathways by which individual and environmental constructs may influence the daily IRF consumption were identified. Data on IRF consumption were collected using a food frequency questionnaire.&#x0D; Results: Overall, 42% of children consumed IRF, while 95% of caregivers intended to provide them with IRF daily. There was no association between the intention and the actual behavior. The daily IRF consumption was instead predicted by the child's age and environmental factors. In turn, the subjective norm and the perceived behavioral control predicted the intention.&#x0D; Conclusion: By using a valid and reliable tool to collect data on individual and environmental factors affecting the consumption of IRF among Senegalese young children on a national scale, our research highlights potential barriers to their provision. These barriers should be considered in the design and implementation of effective interventions to improve their nutrition.

Determinants of iron-rich food deficiency among children under 5 years in sub-Saharan Africa: a comprehensive analysis of Demographic and Health Surveys

BackgroundIron deficiency is a major public health problem that affects the physical and cognitive development of children under 5 years of age (under-5 children) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, the...

Spatial variations and determinants of iron containing foods consumption among 6–23 months old children in Ethiopia: spatial, and multilevel analysis

Consuming foods high in iron benefits metabolic processes as well as the development of the neonatal and fetal brain. Despite the significance of eating foods high in iron for public health, Ethiopian practices are still limited when compared to the World Health Organization's (WHO) assessment of its consumption of such foods. This study used the Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS) to evaluate the consumption of iron-rich foods, regional clustering, and related characteristics among children aged 6–23 months. The information was taken from the typical EDHS 2019 dataset, which included a weighted sample of 1572 young children aged 6–23 months old in total. Utilizing Kuldorff's SaTScan version 9.6 software, spatial scan statistics were produced. Software from ArcGIS 10.8 was used to display the regional distribution of inadequate consumption of foods high in iron. Utilizing multilevel or mixed effects logistic regression analysis, the associated determinants for a healthy diet rich in foods containing iron were found. In the final model, a P-value of < 0.05 was announced as a statistical significance variable. Overall, in Ethiopia, children aged 6–23 months consumed iron-rich foods at a rate of 27.14% (95% CI 24.99–29.39). Poor intake of foods heavy in iron is concentrated in Ethiopia's regional states of Afar, a sizable portion of Amhara, Oromia, Tigray, Somali, Gambela, and SNNPS. Primary and secondary education (AOR = 1.73, CI 95%: 1.23, 2.41), and (AOR = 1.97,CI 95%: 1.25, 3.10), having ≥ 2 under five children, and current status of breastfeeding (AOR = 0.62 (CI 95%: 0.45, 0.84), and (AOR = 0.32, CI 95%: 0.23, 0.44), giving birth at health facilities (AOR = 1.51, CI 95%: 1.06, 2.13),being from Afar and Somali regions (AOR = 0.39, 95%: 0.17, 0.93), and (AOR = 0.26, CI 95%: 0.10, 0.69) have shown statistically significant association with the outcome variable respectively. In Ethiopia, providing high-iron meals and supplements to under-2-year-old children represents minimal, but persistent, public health expenses. Based on the identified determinants, the Ethiopian federal ministry of health and other stakeholders should pay special attention to the locations designated as hot spots for maternal and child health service enhancement to promote the consumption of iron-rich meals among children aged 6–23 months.

Impact Assessment of Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation with and Without Intensive Health Education in Pregnant Women of Rural Area of District Etawah: An Interventional Study

Background: Low birth weight , post-partum haemorrhage still births and maternal deaths are associated with anaemia in pregnancy. If prevalence of anemia will be reduced then there will be improvement in maternal and child health and its outcome. Aim &amp; Objectives: To evaluate the changes in the hematological profile of the study subjects and to determine the impact of intensive health education intervention on anemia status of pregnant women. Methodology: A Community based interventional study was conducted among 200 Pregnant women of selected villages in rural area of Etawah district (100 women in each interventional and non-interventional group) using a self-developed, pre designed, pretested, structured and validated questionnaire. statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software was used to analyse the data. Result: After health education intervention there is significant increase in the haematological profile of study participants of interventional group (p&lt;0.05) as before intervention values of mean Hb was 10.58±1.79 gm/dl which became 11.72±1.48 gm/dl There were 34 (73.9%) participants in the interventional group that were originally anaemic before the study, but after the intervention, they became non-anaemic. Conclusion: Health education sessions helped the pregnant women to improve their knowledge regarding anemia in pregnancy, as well as improve their ability to select iron rich foods, increase compliance with iron supplementation, and raise their haemoglobin levels.

Effect of Moringa Oleifera leaves powder on hemoglobin level in second-trimester pregnant women of Karachi, Pakistan.

Background: Anemia, particularly iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy, has substantial implications for maternal health and fetal growth. Moringa leaves are known to be rich in iron and may offer a dietary solution to combat anemia in pregnant women. However, evidence on the association between fresh Moringa leaf consumption and maternal hemoglobin levels during pregnancy is lacking. Hence, this study aims to assess the impact of Moringa Oleifera leaf powder supplementation on hemoglobin levels during the second trimester of pregnancy in Karachi, Pakistan. Methodology: A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at Koohi Goth Women's Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan, from November 2021 to May 2023. The study involved 200 pregnant women who consumed fresh Moringa leaves and 200 non-consumers. Data were collected through an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire, and hemoglobin levels were measured using HemoCue Hb 301. Results: The demographic characteristics of the study participants were analyzed, revealing that most participants in both groups were between 20 and 30 years old. Additionally, most participants in both groups were pregnant for the first time. Hemoglobin (Hb) levels were measured across trimesters, with the Moringa leaf extract group showing levels of 9.43 ± 0.62 g/dL in the first trimester, 8.98 ± 1.12 g/dL in the second trimester, and 9.09 ± 1.04 g/dL in the third trimester. The folic iron group exhibited a higher increase in hemoglobin concentration (10.14 ± 0.91 g/dL) compared to the Moringa leaf extract group (8.98 ± 1.12 g/dL), but the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant. Conclusion: In conclusion, iron-rich foods such as Moringa leaves and iron tablets are recommended to enhance hemoglobin levels in pregnant women.

Iron - a background article for the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023.

Iron absorption from foods is generally lower than that of most other nutrients and is highly variable depending on individual iron status and iron bioavailability in the meal. Several large population groups in the Nordic and Baltic countries are at risk of iron deficiency, including infants, young children, menstruating females, pregnant women as well as vegetarians. Iron deficiency leads to anemia, fatigue, and limited capacity for physical activity. Of particular concern is that iron deficiency anemia in young children is associated with impaired neurodevelopment. A comprehensive literature search has been performed and summarized. New factorial calculations have been performed considering iron losses, iron absorption and iron requirements in various population groups. Recent data on iron intakes and the prevalence of iron deficiency in the Nordic countries are presented. Average requirements and tentative recommended intakes are presented for 12 different population groups. Pregnant women and those with high menstrual blood losses should consume iron-rich food and undergo screening for iron deficiency. Infants should consume iron-rich complementary foods and cow's milk should be avoided as a drink before 12 months of age and limited to < 500 mL/day in toddlers. Vegetarians should consume a diet including wholegrains, legumes, seeds, and green vegetables together with iron absorption enhancers. There is no evidence that iron intake per se increases the risk of cancer or diabetes. Iron absorption from foods is generally lower than that of most other nutrients and can vary between <2 and 50% depending on individual iron status and iron bioavailability in the meal.

Nutrition knowledge among pregnant women in Lebanon: A cross-sectional study.

Women's knowledge of the nutritional guidelines during pregnancy can affect the health and nutritional status of both mother and child. Having good nutritional information related to maternal dietary intake and healthy lifestyles is therefore of great importance. However, there is limited published research that demonstrates pregnant women's knowledge of the nutritional guidelines during pregnancy in Lebanon. To assess the knowledge on food sources and energy recommendations as well as food safety practices and diet-health relationship among women during pregnancy in Lebanon. A cross-sectional study. The study was conducted at prenatal care clinics in Lebanon, and all pregnant women present, regardless of nationality, were invited to complete the self-administered nutrition knowledge questionnaire. The study assessed five different nutrition knowledge domains (food sources of nutrients, dietary behaviors, food safety knowledge, micronutrients for fetal development, and energy requirements and weight gain) and the demographic characteristics of pregnant women who completed a multidimensional online survey based on validated and existing measures. Four-hundred and ten responses were obtained. Approximately half of respondents (47%) held a university degree, for 42% of women this was their first pregnancy, and 71% had a planned pregnancy. Among the different nutrition knowledge domains, the highest levels of knowledge were for the behaviors that can minimize the effect of nausea/vomiting, heartburn, and constipation during pregnancy (63.9%) and the lowest levels of knowledge was for the importance of iodine and omega-3 fatty acids in pregnancy (28.4%). Most of females knew about food safety practices during pregnancy (72.9%) but less than half were knowledgeable about listeriosis contamination (45.9%), and the types of fish that are the safest to select during pregnancy (47.8%). Despite the fact that pregnant women had an adequate level of knowledge in different nutrition-related areas, there was inadequate level of awareness related to critical nutrients and behaviors that can have adverse effects on mother and/or baby. Therefore, there is a need to focus on specific maternal nutrition aspects such as iron-rich foods, listeriosis food contamination, and nutrients that aid in fetal brain and retina development.

Digital Educational Game "O Jardim do Ferro": A Tool for the Prevention of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Childhood.

Objective: To create and evaluate a digital educational game (DEG) for preschool children for the prevention of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. Methodology: The DEG software was developed by a multidisciplinary team, according to Chandler's methodology, in Engine Unity. The game is a 2D platformer, for Android, with three different phases. A quiz was developed for parents/caregivers about iron absorption and anemia. The quiz content was evaluated by experts. The evaluation of the game was carried out through a questionnaire applied in the school for children from 4 to 6 years of age. Results: For the construction of the game, programming, team planning, art, and soundtrack were necessary. The game was registered at the National Institute of Industrial Property. The quiz was evaluated by 14 experts and all questions had more than 80% agreement. The questionnaire was answered by 32 children with a mean age of 5.0 ± 0.7 years, and ∼70% evaluated the game positively. Thus, the acceptability of the software was favored by most players. Conclusion: The "O Jardim do Ferro" software, from its conception to evaluation, proved to be a promising tool to contribute to food and nutrition education actions, providing opportunities for the construction of knowledge about iron-rich foods for the prevention of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in childhood.