Diet & Nutrition Profile of Children of Gond and Kharwar Tribes Population of Eastern Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

This was a cross-sectional study designed to collect information on dietary intake and food patterns of Gond and Kharwar children of Sonbhadra district. 350 Gond and 307 Kharwar tribal children samples were selected from the rural villages of Sonbhadra district. A pretested food frequency questionnaire and 24 hour dietary recall was used to collect information on food intake and meal pattern. Average daily nutrient intake of tribes children were calculated and compared with recommended dietary allowances (RDA) for Indian. Average daily dietary intake of both Gond and Kharwar tribe’s children was found significantly lower when compared with RDA. Mostly cereals were consumed by subjects and are the main source of energy. Daily consumption of milk and milk products was very low. Vegetables and fruits consumption was almost negligible. Their daily diet mostly contains cereals, pulses and little amount of milk and milk product and meat and poultry. Results indicated an overall poor nutritional status among Gond and Kharwar children of Sonbhadra. A very high incidence of under-nourishment was seen among these tribes’ children. Nutritional and health professional are required to educate and encourage tribal people to improve intake of milk and milk products, fruits and green leafy vegetables. Improper cooking method and unhygienic food habit was seen in these people.