Impact of fruit and vegetable intake on pregnancy discomforts among expectant women in Wakiso District

Abstract

Background: Anatomical and physiological changes during gestation are accompanied by a wide range of pregnancy related complaints. Thus, the heightened demand for energy and nutrients during such a critical period is hindered hence adverse pregnancy outcomes. Non-pharmacological interventions; fruit and vegetable consumption inclusive are recommended as initial treatment of such complaints. Therefore, this study focuses on establishing the relationship between fruit and vegetable consumption and macro and micronutrient intake for desirable pregnancy outcomes. Methodology: The study followed a cross section and cohort study design employing mixed methods of data collection. The target population was comprised of pregnant women above 18 years receiving antenatal care from 6 randomly selected government-aided health facilities in Wakiso district. An interviewer administered questionnaire comprising of items in line with each of the specific objectives was issued to participants. Data of patterns of fruit and vegetable consumption was analyzed using descriptive statistics while the association between fruit and vegetable intake and pregnancy outcomes was analyzed by independent T-test, Pearson chi-square test, and thematic analysis. Binary logistic regression and thematic analysis were used to analyze data about predictors of fruit and vegetable intake as well as the relationship between fruit and vegetable intake and pregnancy related complaints. All analyses were done at 95% CI and a p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Most pregnant women (78.5%) in Wakiso district inadequately consume fruits and vegetables. Employment, rural residence, spouse support, who controls household food and its sources, and distance between home and where fruits and vegetables are sold are among the predictors of fruit and vegetable consumption. Adequate fruit and vegetable consumption was associated with desirable pregnancy outcomes and a reduction in pregnancy related complaints. Conclusion and recommendation: Adequate fruit and vegetable consumption reduces the intensity and frequency of pregnancy related complaints and is associated with desirable pregnancy outcomes. Intense nutrition education and awareness campaigns are needed to increase fruit and vegetable intake among pregnant women.