Food choices and dietary intake markers among pregnant women
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66154/nmetj.v2i1.18Keywords:
Pregnant Woman, Feeding Behavior, Food, ProcessedAbstract
Objective: To evaluate food intake markers in pregnant women and the factors associated with their food choices. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted with 32 pregnant women residing in Porto Alegre, Brazil, who were treated at Primary Health Care Units. Food intake markers and the perceived importance of various determinants of food choices were evaluated. Results: Thirty-two pregnant women from Porto Alegre participated in the study, with a mean age of 27.5 ± 6.8 years. Most had completed or partial high school education (56.3%). The factors considered most important in food choice were the baby's health and guidance from health professionals (100%), followed by economic factors (97%). Regarding consumption patterns, a high frequency of legume and sugar-sweetened beverage intake was observed. Positive correlations were identified between education level and the intake of cooked vegetables (rho = 0.389; p = 0.028$), as well as between education level and the consumption of fresh fruits (rho = 0.429; p = 0.014). Age showed a negative correlation with the consumption of instant noodles, ultra-processed snacks, or savory crackers (rho = -0.403; p = 0.022). Conclusion: The study revealed dietary behaviors that are both detailed and concerning among pregnant women. Education level and age were associated with diet quality. The results reinforce the need to strengthen food and nutrition education initiatives aimed at pregnant women, considering socioeconomic conditions as central determinants of food choices.
Keywords: Pregnant Women, Feeding Behavior, Processed Foods.
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