Abstract

SANCHEZ, CL et al. Calcium intake nutritional status in breastfeeding women. ALAN [online]. 2008, vol.58, n.4, pp.371-376. ISSN 0004-0622.

The aim of this study was to analyze the diets of 39 healthy, lactating women (average age = 34.3 years; average BMI = 26.2 kg/m²) by a 24-hour dietary recall. This investigation was focused on calcium and vitamin D intake. Nutrients were estimated using the software Dial®. These participants were divided into calcium restrictors, defined as calcium intake <1200 mg/day, and non-restrictors (>1200 mg/day). The results showed that 64% of the study population (restrictors) reported a mean energy intake (2042.7 ± 458.3 kcal), calcium intake (812.4 ± 211.2 mg/day) and vitamin D intake (1.71 ± 1.59 µg/day) below the adequate intake level (AI) and lower than non-restrictors estimated intakes (p<0.01). The conclusion of this study is that a high percentage of the lactating women consume a diet below nutritional recommendations during this stage. It is recommended that health professionals should inform these mothers about the correct dietary habits during this period.

Keywords : Breastfeeding; calcium intake; vitamin D intake; nutrition.