Feeding practices during pregnancy and early lactation among Mam‐speaking women in the western highlands of Quetzaltenango, Guatemala

Background Food choices during pregnancy and lactation, strongly impacting child health/development, are influenced by cultural and economic factors. Objectives We sought to describe maternal feeding practices in the food‐insecure western highlands of Guatemala. Methods Pregnant and early‐lactating women who sought services from an NGO serving their communities, were interviewed regarding feeding practices. 25 women in each of 4 hamlets, 14–41 yo, were enrolled and asked about frequency of eating from different food groups and whether they had taken government‐sponsored iron‐folic acid supplements or the corn‐soy mix (CSM) protein supplement distributed by the NGO. Results 96% reported consuming 3 meals/day, with 100% consuming carbohydrates (maize, potato, beans) daily. Vegetable, fruit, egg and meat intake rates of <1X/wk were 18, 47, 52 and 54%, respectively. Significant differences in intake frequency for vegetables and meats were seen according to site and socioeconomic status. 60% of the women took nutrient supplements; 54% used CSM. The majority visited the NGO to receive the CSM supplement, rather than for health care. Conclusions Food diversification and security emerges as the focus for action. Better understanding determinants of feeding practices, and impact on mother/infant health, is needed. Funded by Tufts University Department of Public Health Global Health Fellowship.