Food Accessibility and Nutritional Outcomes Among Food-Insecure Pregnant Women in Singapore.

Background/

Objectives

Food insecurity during pregnancy is associated with higher risks of negative physical outcomes for both mother and child. This study aims to understand experiences of food insecurity among low-income Singaporean pregnant women and its impact on nutritional status.

Methods

In this cross-sectional, mixed-methods study, 49 food-insecure pregnant women were recruited from KK Women's and Children's Hospital between November 2021 and November 2023, among which 11 in-depth interviews were conducted. Questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, 24-Hour dietary recalls, metabolic and nutritional blood tests were conducted for all subjects. Descriptive quantitative analysis was performed and integrated with qualitative thematic analysis to explain findings.

Results

On average, women were overweight pre-pregnancy (body mass index 26.1 ± 6.9 kg/m2) and had low haemoglobin and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. Calorie intake and intake from major food groups did not meet recommendations during pregnancy, except for "Grains". From interviews, effects of financial constraints, how participants managed their food supply and pregnancy-related symptoms, supported findings from 24-Hour dietary recalls.

Conclusions

Food insecurity led to suboptimal nutritional status and diets in Singaporean pregnant women despite appearing well-nourished. Further exploration of perspectives of food-insecure mothers, healthcare providers and welfare organisations is needed to devise long-term solutions to improve food security and alleviate malnutrition.