Factors associated with micronutrient intake of low-income overweight or obese young mothers

Abstract

We examined the proportion of the low-income overweight or obese mothers meeting micronutrient recommendations, and whether race, education, and body mass index category (BMIc) were associated with micronutrient intake. This analysis included 198 women who completed a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Micronutrients were grouped: antioxidant (vitamins A, C, and E, as well as copper, selenium, and zinc), methylation (vitamins B2, B3, B6, B9, and B12, and choline), bone health (vitamins D and K, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus), and others (vitamin B1, iron, potassium, and sodium). We performed descriptive analysis and generalized linear models. At least two-thirds of women met most antioxidant, methylation, and other micronutrient recommendations. Antioxidant: White reported lower intake of selenium than Black. There were negative associations between education and vitamin E intake and between BMIc and zinc intake. Methylation: White had lower intake of choline than Black, and BMIc was negatively associated with vitamin B12 intake. Bone health: White had lower vitamin K intake than Black. BMIc was negatively associated with magnesium intake. Others: White reported lower potassium and sodium intake than Black. Education was positively associated with iron intake. Nutrition education for the target population might consider tailoring intervention based on race, education, and BMIc.