A Comparative Assessment on Dietary Habits of Pregnant Women in Urban and Rural Areas

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Prenatal nutrition that is nutrient-rich is linked to better fetal health, more suitable birth weights, and higher rates of maternal and baby survival. Good dietary habits during pregnancy play a significant role in determining the long-term nutritional status of both the mother and the foetus. To determine the likelihood of nutritional deficiency and to provide pregnant women in both urban and rural locations with suitable dietary advice, poor dietary intakes during pregnancy can result in inadequate nutritional status and have an additional impact on the health of the mother and the unborn child. METHODS: The study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology unit in Chennai. The investigation comprised 100 pregnant women in both urban and rural areas. The patients were assessed using anthropometric and dietary methods, including a Food Frequency Questionnaire and 24-hour recall. CONCLUSION: The dietary habits of pregnant women in urban areas show higher nutrient intakes than their rural counterparts. The dietary pattern of pregnant women in urban areas is better than that of rural areas due to their healthier food choices. A balanced diet can help a pregnant woman improve maternal health and enjoy a safe pregnancy for both herself and her foetus.