ASSESSMENT OF DIETARY DIVERSITY AND HYGIENE PRACTICES OF LACTATING MOTHERS ATTENDING IMMUNIZATION CLINIC AT UMARU SANDA GENERAL HOSPITAL BIDA, NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Dietary diversity is important for adequate nutrition and health. The intake of diversified foods is often advised to prevent the body from lacking important micronutrients. Hygiene practices plays a crucial role in the wellbeing and nutritional state of lactating mothers by decreasing infection and promoting good health and appetite. The aim of this study was to assess the dietary diversity and hygiene practices of the respondents. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 150 lactating mothers attending immunization at Umaru Sanda General Hospital Bida, Niger State. A well-structured, questionnaire was used to obtain information on socio-economic and demographic characteristics, dietary diversity and hygiene practices of the respondents. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) while Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to find association between educational level and hygiene practices. Result from the socio-economic and demographic characteristics revealed that majority (83.3%) of the respondents were Nupe. Respondents occupation showed that 34.0% were traders while 35.3% were full time house wives.. The result from dietary diversity indicated that 65.3% of the respondents consumed≤3 food groups daily (low dietary diversity), 32.7% consumed 4 to 5 food groups (medium dietary diversity)  and only 2% of the respondent consumed ≥6 food groups(high dietary diversity). The study for hygiene practices revealed that 66.0% wash their hands before and after breast feeding, 87.3% wash their hand after changing baby’s diapers and 98.7% use safe and clean water at home. Correlation showed significant association between the educational status of lactating mothers and their hygiene practices. The study recommends women empowerment and nutritional enlightenment programs geared toward improved food choices.