Assessment of Nutritional Status of Pregnant Women in Coimbatore District and Imparting Nutrition Education

Nutrition plays a major role in the growth and development of each individual from foetal life to old age. Pre-conceptual nutritional status and sufficient nutrient intake during pregnancy play an important role in promoting the nutritional status of the foetus and also the baby during the lactation period. Maternal malnutrition promotes life-threatening consequences. The aim of the present study was 1. To study the socioeconomic status of the selected pregnant women, 2. To assess the nutritional status of the selected pregnant women, 3. To identify the nutritional and health problems of the selected pregnant women, and 4. To impart a nutrition education programme. In the present study, 100 pregnant women from Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu were selected as study participants. An interview schedule was formulated to acquire sufficient information from the participants. Nutrition education was given through leaflet and poster methods to 30 pregnant women who were willing. A checklist was used to assess the impact of the nutrition education programme. The results of the study showed that the majority of the participants were literate. Nutrients like protein, calcium, iron and folic acid intake of the selected subjects were more deficient than the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). The nutrition education programme had a positive impact in creating awareness about nutrition among the target population. The present study concluded that proper knowledge of eating habits and nutritional requirements can help to promote the health status of pregnant women.