Assessment of plasma iron and zinc status and its relationship with dietary intake and body mass index in antenatal women

Objectives: To assess prevalence of iron and zinc deficiency in pregnant women of Peshawar, Pakistan. Methodology: This cross sectional study was conducted on 88 pregnant women who were in their first trimester of pregnancy who visited Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar. Socio-demographic and anthropometric data were collected using a standard questionnaire. Nutritional intake was assessed using 24 hours dietary recall method. Plasma iron and zinc were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Results: Mean daily energy intake was 1053.5 +/- 429.4. Average daily intake of energy, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, iron and zinc was significantly lower than recommended daily dietary allowances (RDA). Plasma zinc level was negatively correlated with BMI and positively correlated with protein intake. Plasma iron status did not show any significant correlation with BMI or nutritional intake. Conclusion: Most of first trimester pregnant women in Peshawar had low energy, macro and micronutrient intake as well as low plasma iron and zinc level.