Dietary Pattern, Diversity and Nutritional Status of Pregnant Women in Urban and Rural Areas of Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Adequate maternal nutrition is essential for the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus. However, poor dietary diversity and malnutrition remain important nutritional challenges among pregnant women, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study assessed dietary habits, dietary diversity, and nutritional status among pregnant women in urban and rural areas of Oyo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women attending selected health facilities in Ogbomoso North and Orire Local Government Areas of Oyo State. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, 24-hour dietary recall, and food frequency assessment. Dietary diversity was assessed using the Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) indicator, while nutritional status was assessed using anthropometric measurements. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Dietary diversity among the respondents was moderate, with a substantial proportion failing to meet the minimum dietary diversity for women. Cereals and starchy staples were the most frequently consumed food groups, while consumption of animal-source foods, fruits, and green leafy vegetables was relatively low. Dietary diversity was significantly associated with educational level, household income, and occupation (p < 0.05). A significant association was also observed between dietary diversity and pre-pregnancy BMI among urban (p = 0.003) and rural (p = 0.024) respondents. Significant associations were further observed between dietary diversity and respondents’ description of their weight before pregnancy in both urban and rural areas (p < 0.001). The study revealed inadequate dietary diversity among a considerable proportion of pregnant women, alongside the coexistence of undernutrition and overweight/obesity. The significant associations between dietary diversity, socio-demographic factors, and pre-pregnancy nutritional status highlight the need for strengthened maternal nutrition education, improved access to affordable nutrient-rich foods, and promotion of diverse diets during pregnancy.