A study on role of literacy on dietary pattern among pregnant women in rural areas of Aligarh, U.P.

A survey based study on rural areas of Aligarh District, Uttar Pradesh (U.P.) India was conducted to assess the role of literacy on dietary practices among pregnant women, and misconception regarding dietary intake during pregnancy

For the purpose of the study, a self prepared structured interview schedule was used to collect the qualitative information

Ten villages of rural areas of Aligarh district (Uttar Pradesh) India were selected.

Purposive random sampling.

Five hundred pregnant women, with mean age were 26.19 years were selected as a target group.

Nutrient intake was compared with Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). Percentage method is used to assess the food fads and literacy level.

In the study areas energy releasing nutrients and protein rich foods are more consumed consciously among literate pregnant women as compared to illiterate pregnant women. Mostly the illiterate pregnant woman follows the food fads.

Literacy level assumed a special significance in the Indian context because the problem of malnutrition in India is mainly due to ignorance, poverty, and lack of knowledge which is mainly governed by social taboos.