Economic Deprivation, Cultural Beliefs and Practices Impacts Nutrition among Pregnant Women in Dekina local Government of Kogi State, Nigeria
  • Author(s): Momoh Peace; Kakwagh V. Venatus; Momoh I. Joseph; AUDU, Mohammed (Ph.D)
  • Paper ID: 1713599
  • Page: 1732-1743
  • Published Date: 23-01-2026
  • Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
  • Publisher: IRE Journals
  • e-ISSN: 2456-8880
  • Volume/Issue: Volume 9 Issue 7 January-2026
Abstract

This study explores the nutritional knowledge and practices of pregnant women in rural communities of Dekina Local Government Area (LGA), Kogi State, Nigeria. The research aims to determine the level of nutritional knowledge among these women, examine their attitudes towards proper nutrition, Additionally, the study analyzes how these nutritional practices impact maternal health. A descriptive survey design was adopted, involving a sample of 384 pregnant women attending antenatal care at various healthcare facilities across the three districts of Okura, Dekina, and Biraidu. Data were collected through a combination of self-administered questionnaires and in-depth interviews, with both quantitative and qualitative analyses employed. Findings revealed that while a significant number of respondents demonstrated basic nutritional knowledge, there were gaps in understanding the importance of certain micronutrients. Attitudes towards proper nutrition were generally positive, yet socio-economic challenges limited access to balanced diets, leading to suboptimal nutritional practices. The study concludes that improving access to nutritional education and resources is crucial for enhancing maternal health outcomes in rural areas. It recommends targeted nutrition programs, community-based interventions, and stronger healthcare support to address the identified challenges and improve maternal nutrition.

Keywords

Nutritional knowledge, pregnant women, rural communities, attitudes, dietary practices.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Momoh Peace, Kakwagh V. Venatus, Momoh I. Joseph, AUDU, Mohammed (Ph.D) "Economic Deprivation, Cultural Beliefs and Practices Impacts Nutrition among Pregnant Women in Dekina local Government of Kogi State, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 7 2026 Page 1732-1743 https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I7-1713599

IEEE:
Momoh Peace, Kakwagh V. Venatus, Momoh I. Joseph, AUDU, Mohammed (Ph.D) "Economic Deprivation, Cultural Beliefs and Practices Impacts Nutrition among Pregnant Women in Dekina local Government of Kogi State, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(7) https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I7-1713599