Eating Habits and Nutritional Adequacy of the Transgender (Hijra) Community Residing In and Around Mumbai

Abstract

For centuries, the Hijra enjoyed a special respect in the Hindu and Islamic cultures however, over the time, stigmatization took its toll and today the community is pushed to live on extreme societal margin. The present study was undertaken to assess the nutritional status of 304 transgender (Male to Female) residing in and around Mumbai using a mixed method approach. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique with the help of three Community Based Organisations (CBOs) working in close association with transgender. Data related to their nutritional status was collected before the pandemic using Food Frequency Questionnaire, 24-hr Recall and anthropometric measurements. Data related to impact of COVID-19 pandemic on food habits of transgender was collected from eight key informants working with CBOs using in-depth telephonic interviews. Results indicated that consumption of calorie dense junk foods was high and that of immunity building micronutrient dense foods such as fruits, vegetables and milk was notably low. Mean intake of macronutrients was adequate but that of micronutrients was lower for the majority. BMI assessment showed that 13 and 49% were underweight and overweight /obese respectively. COVID-19 pandemic further worsened nutritional status. The findings of the study may serve as basis for formulation of effective nutrition intervention programmes for transgender community.