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Feeding practices during pregnancy and lactation amongst Mam‐Mayan women in rural Guatemala: a mixed qualitative and quantitative evaluation
Author(s) -
Russell Olivia,
Bermudez Odilia I.,
Chomat Anne Marie,
Maldonado Alejandra,
Garcia Rosario,
Wren Hilary,
Scott Marilyn E.,
Koski Kristine G.,
Solomons Noel W.
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.27.1_supplement.841.14
Subject(s) - lactation , pregnancy , focus group , environmental health , medicine , biology , genetics , marketing , business
Objectives To explore local beliefs influencing feeding practices during pregnancy and lactation among Mam‐Mayan women in rural communities in the Western Highlands of Guatemala. Methods 12 pregnant (P), 13 lactating (L) women and 2 midwives participated in semi‐structured interviews. 2 focus groups were also conducted with women. All sessions were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using HyperResearch. A separate survey of 61 P and 67 L women inquired about their food practices. Findings Most P and L women recognize the importance of consuming nutrient‐rich foods so that they may be passed on to the growing infant. Many P women reported decreasing their food intake. 34% of P and 36% of L women reported avoiding certain foods during pregnancy, most commonly animal products (beef and poultry). A majority of L women reported increasing their intake during lactation, while 19% reported avoiding certain foods, especially “cold” foods such as black beans, believed to negatively impact infant health. On the other hand, a majority of L women believe that consuming “hot” foods, such as corn atole , improves milk quantity. Conclusions Increasing general dietary intake, especially protein intake during pregnancy is a key area for action. The hot/cold dichotomy is recognized within the study communities and may play a role in diet choices during pregnancy and lactation. Funding: TUSM