Socio-economic and Demographic Factors Influencing the Nutritional Status of Lactating Mothers in Delhi, India

Nutrition deficiency is commonly observed in lactating mothers and is a rising trend in India due to improper dietary patterns, physiological factors, socio-economic and demographic factors. The aim was to study the nutritional status and its related factors among lactating mothers in the urban areas of Delhi region, India. A structured, pre-tested and validated questionnaire was used to capture the socio-demographic information, including economical and medical conditions, of 150 lactating women in Delhi, India. Pearson correlation coefficient and association of various factors were determined. 72.5 per cent of women were in the age bracket of 20-25 years and in low-income group (70 per cent). The prevalence of underweight was 21.33 per cent, and the mean and SD of body mass index (BMI) of mothers were 19.17 +/- 2.1 and 20.70 +/- 2.3 for sedentary and moderate workers, respectively. There were significant correlations found between BMI, energy, carbohydrates, fat and protein intake (p < .05). Multivariate regression model was used to associate the nutrition of participants' income group, education, type of work, age of mothers and frequency of meals. Based on the results, intervention programmes for dietary correction and the effect of nutrition on the body have to be emphasised to lactating mothers for better health and nutritional outcomes.