ABSTRACT

The lactation period is a major source of concern in developing countries because of its positive impact on the health and nutrition of the mothers. Adequate nutrition for the mothers is therefore important for their good health. The objective of this study was to assess nutritional status of breastfeeding mothers in Umuahia South LGA, Nigeria. This cross sectional study was conducted on 232 randomly selected women attending post natal clinics with their infants (0-6 months) in four healths facilitates in Umuahia South Local Government Area (LGA) of Abia State, Nigeria. A structured, validated questionnaire was used to obtain information on socioeconomic characteristics. Body Mass Index (BMI) was used to assess nutritional status by taking height and weight measurements using standard procedures. Dietary intake was assessed using 24 hour recall and a validated food frequency questionnaire. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Majority 52.6% of the women were in the age range of 28-38years, 40.1% had a total family monthly income >N40, 000. The prevalence of overweight and obesity were 51.3% and 17.2%, respectively. Cereals/cereal based dishes and leafy/non leafy vegetables were consumed more frequently while legumes were less frequently consumed on a daily basis. No significant correlation was found between BMI and energy intake. Intake of some essential nutrients (protein, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals) was lower than recommendations. Intervention programs such as nutrition education and dietary diversity should be emphasized during antenatal and lactation period to improve health and nutrition status of the mothers.