Assessment of the Minimum Dietary Diversity of Reproductive Women in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the adequacy of micronutrients in the diets of reproductive women in Saudi Arabia using the Food and Agriculture Organization and the United States Agency for International Development Guidelines for Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women. Materials and Methods: A sample of 1,700 mothers, aged 15-49 years, was selected from five major regions in Saudi Arabia. The 24 h recall method was used to record food consumed in the last 24 h. Results: The results revealed that in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), 54% of mothers achieved the Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) and consumed an adequate intake of micronutrients, whereas 46% of mothers of infants did not. Food groups that contributed significantly to the MDD were grains (100%); meat, poultry and fish (91%) and dairy products (78%). Those that contributed moderately were other vegetables (49%), pulses (44%) and other fruits (41%). The food groups that contributed minimally were eggs (28%); other fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin A (23%); dark green leafy vegetables (20%) and nuts and seeds (17%). There was a positive relationship between the MDD score achieved and the mothers’ level of education, income and age. The nutritional messages, information and counseling provided to reproductive women increased the percentage of mothers who achieved adequate micronutrients. These results are essential in visualizing the problem of insufficient consumption of micronutrients and specific food groups in reproductive women’s diets. Conclusion: There is a need for formulating strategies to develop programs and interventions to improve and enhance the consumption of adequate micronutrient intake in reproductive women’s diets in the KSA.