Dietary Diversification among Farm Women in Plain and Hill Region of Northern India

A study was conducted to assess dietary diversity of farm women in plain and hill region of Northern India as dietary diversity is recognized as a key element in ensuring adequate intake of all the nutrients. A diet consisting of foods from several groups is essential for proper growth and development. Since it provides all the nutrients viz. proteins, carbohydrates, and fat which are required in large amount however, vitamins and minerals required in small amount. Data was collected from 50 physiologically fit farm women from each region. Food frequency questionnaire and 24 hours recall method was used for investigation. It was found that majority of the respondents were vegetarian and mainly consuming foods from cereals, roots and tubers, milk and milk products, sweets and fruits and vegetables. Majority of respondents had medium dietary diversity 78 and 62 percent and Body Mass Index (BMI), 68 and 52 per cent respectively in plain and hill region. It is an established fact that inadequate food intake leads to low BMI and Chronic Energy Deficiency. Inadequate food intake and low dietary diversity due to lack of awareness, limited availability and accessibility of fruits and vegetables was found in both the regions. However in hilly region dietary diversification was found better. Based on the findings of the study interventions on nutritional and health awareness, kitchen gardening and gender mainstreaming can go a long way in improving nutritional security.