Food and Nutrient Consumption Patterns of Filipino Pregnant and Lactating Women Based on a Nationwide Survey

Due to the limited studies focusing on micronutrient intakes of pregnant and lactating women,and important dietary sources in the Philippines, this study aims to provide an insight into the food and nutrient consumption pattern of pregnant and lactating women. The objectives were to: [1] identify the food groups commonly consumed and dietary patterns of Filipino pregnant and lactating women; [2] describe the macro- and micronutrient intakes of these women; [3]assess the adequacy of these intakes against dietary references; and [4] identify important food sources of their energy and nutrient intakes. This study involved a cross-sectional secondary analysis of the data of 1,474 pregnant women and 4,571 lactating women covered in the 2018–2019 Expanded National Nutrition Surveys (ENNS). Food and beverage intakes were collected using a 24-h food recall method. Energy and nutrient intakes were calculated and analyzed in relation to the Philippine Dietary Reference Intakes (PDRI). Dishes predominantly consumed by pregnant and lactating women were comprised of rice and rice products, fish and products,and vegetables. Cereal consumption is higher, whereas there was a low consumption of meat,milk and dairy products, eggs, dried beans, nuts, and seeds, starchy roots and tubers, and fruits.The mean energy intakes of pregnant and lactating women were below the recommended energy intake (REI). The majority of pregnant (83.6%) and lactating (81.2%) had intakes below theestimated average requirement (EAR) for protein. Mean intakes of all micronutrients except niacin and phosphorous were below the EAR. Iron, calcium, vitamin C, and riboflavin intakes were furthest from the EAR. Less than 1% of pregnant and lactating women met the EAR for iron, whereas less than 10% met the EAR for vitamin A. Rice and rice products were the most important dietary sources of energy, protein, iron, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and phosphorus in the diet of pregnant and lactating women. The findings of this study reflect the low intakes of energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals due to poor dietary quality and food sources, thus increasing the risk of nutrient deficiency among Filipino pregnant and lactating women.