Patrones alimentarios en embarazadas de bajo peso de la región metropolitana

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine food and nutrient intake of underweight pregnant women of the South- East Metropolitan Region. We studied 411 pregnant women attending health control clinics in years 2002 to 2004. Dietary intake was determined by a 24-hour recall taken at home in week 20 and 35 by trained nutritionists. Nutrient intake was analyzed using the software Food Processor 7.9, and compared with the recommended servings from the Ministry of Health. Baseline characteristics (mean ± SD): age 23.8 ± 5.4 years, weight 49.3 ± 4.7 kg, height 156.9 ± 5.9 cm, gestational age 11.5 ± 3, 7 weeks. Compared with the recommendations the intake of energy and macronutrients was adequate while the intake of vitamin A, C, E and B6, calcium and zinc were 75% of the recommendations. The intake of omega-3 fatty acids averaged 61 ± 50 and 71 ± 24 mg/day in week 20 and 35, respectively, a sixth of the NIH recommendation. Deficient intakes were found for dairy products, fruits, vegetables and meats, however there was a higher intake of cereals. Conclusions: The nutrient intake of pregnant women in this group is insufficient in several micronutrients, resulting from inadequate food intake; this should be corrected by improving the quality of their diet or other measures such as supplementation with these micronutrients.