Food components and dietary patterns of two different groups of Mexican lactating women

To evaluate the energy, nutrient intakes and dietary patterns of Mexican lactating women at one month postpartum, and the associations of maternal age and region on their intakes.

A total of 60 women were studied: 41 from Northwest and 19 from Central Mexico, 33 adolescent and 27 adult women. Data were collected through two quantitative 24 h recalls. Two more recalls were used in a sub sample to calculate the coefficient of variation of intakes. Menus were based on the consumption frequency of foods.

The mean energy intake of the adolescent women (2354 +/- 1199 kcal) and those of Central Mexico (1690 +/- 981 kcal) was lower than the recommendations. Zinc, calcium, vitamin E, C and folate were inadequate (55 to 85% prevalence of inadequacy). Energy, dietary fiber, sodium, potassium, iron and folate intakes were higher (P < 0.05) in Northwest Mexico. Northwestern women consumed less variety of vegetables or fruits compared to Mexico City region women. Wheat tortillas and beans were from Northwestern but not from the Mexico City region diet.

The energy and nutrient intakes of women were different by regional hospital and not by age. Education about the importance of the maternal diet during lactation should be directed toward increasing consumption of foods rich in micronutrients.