Nutritional status and dietary intake of lactating Yoruba mothers in Nigeria

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Abstract
The nutrient intakes of 75 rural and 25 urban lactating mothers of poor socioeconomic status from the Ibadan area of Nigeria who gave birth to singleton babies and fully breast-feed their infants are reported. The nutritional status of the mothers and their lactation performance were assessed from weight for height and mid-arm circumference of the mother and weight of their infants, respectively. Compared to the recommended allowance, the mean daily intake of Fe, thiamine and Ca was adequate and the intake of vitamin A was very high. Mean intakes of energy, protein, riboflavine and ascorbic acid were inadequate (17, 12, 45 and 66%, respectively). The results generally agree with those reported from other developing countries. The mothers were healthy and the weights of their infants were satisfactory; most mothers apparently were able to maintain a good lactation performance.