Investigation of Micro-nutrient Status and Gestational Weight Gain Patterns in Pregnant Women in Bayelsa State, Nigeria
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Abstract
Background: Maternal nutrition significantly influences pregnancy outcomes. In low- and middle-income settings, pregnant women often face a dual burden of excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) and micro-nutrient deficiencies. This study examined GWG patterns and micro-nutrient status among pregnant women attending tertiary health facilities in Bayelsa State, Nigeria.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 90 pregnant women at Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital and Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical tests. GWG was assessed using pre-pregnancy BMI categories based on Institute of Medicine guidelines. Hemoglobin, serum zinc, and urinary iodine levels were measured. Data analysis was performed with SPSS version 26, using chi-square tests at p < 0.05.
Results: Excessive GWG was observed in 86.9% of overweight and 85.7% of obese class I women, compared to 15% of those with normal BMI. Anaemia (Hb <11.0 g/dL) was most common among overweight (64.7%) and obese (71.4%) women. Zinc deficiency (<70 µg/dL) occurred in 58.8% of overweight, 57.1% of obese, and 40% of normal-weight participants. Low urinary iodine levels (<150 µg/L) were found in over half of overweight (52.9%) and obese (57.1%) women. A significant association existed between frame size and actual GWG (p < 0.05), but not with BMI (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: The study highlights the coexistence of excessive GWG and micro-nutrient deficiencies among pregnant women in Bayelsa State. Routine nutritional screening, individualized dietary counseling, and enhanced micro-nutrient supplementation are essential during antenatal care.
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