Knowledge Of Fruit And Vegetable Related Practices And Anthropometric Status Of Private Primary School Teachers In Umuahia North Lga, Abia State:- Iheanyi, Winifred C

ABSTRACT

It is essential to consume fruits and vegetables of at least 400g or 5 servings a day to avoid developing obesity. This study assessed the knowledge of fruits and vegetables related practices and anthropometric status of private primary school Teachers in Umuahia North LGA, Abia State. A cross-sectional survey of 223 Teachers from selected schools was done using a validated questionnaire and body measurements. The questionnaire collected data on demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, knowledge of fruits and vegetables related practices, consumption pattern and common consumed fruits and vegetables. Body mass index (BMI) of the Teachers were calculated using their weight and height measurements. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages). The results showed that 55.2% of the Teachers had good knowledge of fruits and vegetables related practices, but their intake was below the recommended 400g or 5 servings per day. The most common consumed fruit and vegetable were Watermelon (89.7%) and Ugu (96.6%) respectively. The BMI of the Teachers indicated that 4.8% were underweight, 35.9% were normal, 31.7% were overweight, and 27.6% were obese. The study concluded that there was a gap between knowledge and practice of fruits and vegetables consumption among the Teachers, and that many of them were at risk of obesity-related diseases. The study recommended that strategies to increase fruits and vegetable intake and nutrition education on the prevention and consequences of overweight and obesity need to be done among Teachers.