International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition

Authors
Archana Prabhat, Khyrunnisa Begum

Abstract
Adult’s food intake behaviours is particularly important in the context of food insecurity. Since there has been population studies indicating increased risk of overweight and obesity among those who are food insecured. The disparity between the food supply and the intake of foods and nutrients has been getting larger ever since 1970’s. BMI, a widely used measure of nutritional status is the ratio of weight to height measurements. As far as food security is concerned, the adequacy of the supply of nutrients, in particular energy and protein are available to the population. Objective: i) To study the anthropometric measurements and the association between BMI and nutrient intake of the adults. Methodology: Demographic data, nutrient intake (diary technique) and anthropometric measurements (height, weight, MUAC, waist and hip circumferences) were obtained using standard procedures. 350 couples aged 35-60 yrs formed the study population. Results: All were educated, regardless of occupation with varied kind of jobs. Both men and women had normal BMI however WHR was higher indicating central obesity (1.00±0.97 and 0.99±0.137); for males and females respectively. Mean nutrient (Energy) intakes of male and females partners are: 2042 ±369 ±.92 and 1875± 511.090kcals; Compared to RDA, intake of all nutrients except fat and calcium were markedly low and there was a extremely significant difference. Energy bears a positive association of micronutrients. Although the association between nutrient intake and BMI did not exhibit statistical difference. Conclusion: Nutrient intakes of men and women were essentially similar and their BMI tend to be overweight.