IJFANS International Journal of Food and Nutritional Sciences

ISSN PRINT 2319 1775 Online 2320-7876

A Study on Frequency of Consumption of food and Nutritional Supplements by Pregnant women in Kashmir

Main Article Content

Gazala Nisar, Dr Nilofer Khan

Abstract

It is very essential for mothers to obtain a balanced nutrition during the period of pregnancy for fetal growth and her own health. The present study was as such conducted with an objective to assess the frequency of consumption of food and nutritional supplements by pregnant women in Kashmir. The present study was conducted in Maternity Hospital of Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences(SKIMS) Soura Srinagar. A total of 400 pregnant women were randomly selected for the study. A structured questionnaire-cum-interview schedule was devised for collecting the desired information from the pregnant women. Frequency of consumption of different foods was assessed by Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ).The results of the study revealed that less than half the women (42.5%) were in the age group of 25-30 years. Respondents from nuclear family formed the majority, representing more urban than rural habitat. All of the respondents were taking rice, wheat and milk on daily basis.37.75% used to eat pulses daily. Majority of the respondents took meat on weekly basis. Less than half of the subjects used to take chicken once weekly. Green leafy vegetables and eggs were taken by less than half of the respondents on daily basis. Supplements including folic acid, iron, and calcium were taken by most of the respondents on regular basis throughout the course of gestation.

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