Nutritional status of pregnant and lactating women in a rural community

ABSTRACT

A prospective study on nutritional status of pregnant and lactating women in a rural community using dietary anthropometric and haematological indices revealed a high prevalence of chronic malnutrition and anaemia. The diet of the child bearing age women of the community under study has been found to be poor, both in quality and quantity with only 15% energy intake from protein sources. Major factors which were indentified poverty included poverty, education and faulty family norms. Steps for improvement, specially to increase awareness regarding improved nutritional practices, should be undertaken on a priority basis