The Relationship between Energy and Protein Intake and the Incidence of Chronic Energy Deficiency in Pregnant Women
Main Article Content
Oktaviani Yanti Zega
Meiyati Simatupang
Asrina Sitompul
Background: Chronic energy deficiency (CED) during pregnancy is a nutritional concern associated with fetal growth and child health. Adequate energy and protein intake is essential to support nutritional requirements during pregnancy. This study aimed to examine the associations of energy and protein intake with CED among pregnant women in Sibabangun District, Central Tapanuli, Indonesia.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in February 2024, involving 80 pregnant women recruited through total population sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire. The variables analyzed included energy intake, protein intake, and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC). Descriptive and bivariate analyses were performed using SPSS, with associations assessed using the chi-square test.
Results: Thirty participants (37.5%) had CED. Mean energy intake was 1,877.6 ± 325.5 kcal/day, mean protein intake was 60.8 ± 16.6 g/day, and mean MUAC was 23.40 ± 1.43 cm. Energy intake was significantly associated with CED (p < .001; OR = 14.67), as was protein intake (p = .003; OR = 4.67). Participants consuming <1,800 kcal/day had higher odds of CED than those consuming ≥1,800 kcal/day. Similarly, participants consuming <60 g of protein/day had higher odds of CED than those consuming ≥60 g/day.
Conclusion: Energy and protein intake were significantly associated with CED among pregnant women. These findings indicate cross-sectional associations and do not establish causal relationships.
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