Adolescent girls of a Slum of Puducherry: A reflection on their food habits
Journal Title: National Journal of Research in Community Medicine - Year 2013, Vol 2, Issue 2
Abstract
Background: Unhealthy food choices in adolescence make them nutritionally vulnerable, particularly in girls, which might perpetuate the vicious cycle of intergenerational malnutrition. Objective: To study the food habits and its relationship with the nutritional status of adolescent girls. Methodology: A Community based Study was carried out in two phases (Descriptive Cross Sectional, Qualitative) among the adolescent girls in the service area of JIPMER, Pondicherry. A proportionate sampling method was adopted to draw a sample of 250 from the total list (n=507) by simple random technique. Their food intake pattern was assessed by an interview administered structured pretested questionnaire. Anthropometry and hemoglobin estimation was done using standardized methods. BMI was classified (WHO- Asian standards) and wasting and stunting (WHO Anthropac) was determined. Hemoglobin estimation was done by Sahali’s hemoglobinometer. Statistical analysis: Done using SPSS (version 13) and N-Vivo-8 (Demo version). Results: Missing meal was observed in 64.8%, snacking in 100%, eating out in 94% along with certain specific health beliefs and misconceptions. Perception of health effects of snacking significantly determined snacking behavior and perception of healthy body shape significantly determined how many missed their meals. Prevalence of anemia was 66% and was significantly associated with missing meals. Prevalence of underweight, normal and overweight or obese was 63.2%, 26% and 10.8% respectively. Conclusion: Deviant food behaviors and their influence on nutritional status of adolescent girls were observed. Food habits in adolescents should be shaped with sustained motivation to protect their health for the future.
Authors and Affiliations
Lopamudra Lopamudra
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