Exploration of the dietary habits, lifestyle patterns and barriers to healthy eating in UK post‐partum women

• Published in: Nutrition bulletin 2021-03, Vol.46 (1), p.26-39
• Main Authors: Stevens, R., Kelaiditi, E., Myrissa, K.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: barriers; Body mass index; Breast feeding; Breastfeeding & lactation; dietary intake; Lifestyles; Nutrition; nutrition knowledge; Physical activity; post‐partum; Pregnancy; Sleep; Vitamin D; Womens health
• ISSN: 1471-9827; 1467-3010
• DOI: 10.1111/nbu.12483

Maternal nutrition during the post‐partum period (PPP) is important for optimal health. The aim of this study was to explore dietary habits, lifestyle patterns and barriers to healthy eating in post‐partum women. An online survey exploring eating habits, weight status, sleep duration, breastfeeding, nutrition knowledge, physical activity, provision of advice and barriers to healthy eating was completed by 228 women (56.1% were 25–34 years, mean PPP of 5.73 ± 3.31 months). A sub‐sample of 34 women (50% were 35–44 years) completed an optional online multiple‐pass 24‐hour recall. At 6 months post‐partum (n = 60), 72.3% of participants weighed more than their pre‐pregnancy weight (mean 5.56 ± 4.61 kg). In addition, while 60.8% (n = 107) of women had a healthy body mass index (BMI) pre‐pregnancy, this dropped to 46.7% (n = 77) in the PPP. Only 2.2% of women were meeting current UK physical activity guidelines and 73.7% were not meeting the 5 A DAY fruit and vegetable recommendations. Consumption of high calorie snacks and meal skipping were significantly higher during the PPP compared to pre‐pregnancy (P