EFFECTIVENESS OF INDIGENOUS FOOD-BASED NUTRITION VERSUS IMPORTED SUPPLEMENTS ON PREGNANCY OUTCOMES AMONG RURAL WOMEN IN ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigates the comparative effectiveness of indigenous food-based nutrition; fish, snails, seafoods, and bush meats—versus imported supplements among pregnant women in rural Ondo State, Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional design, 250 women were surveyed with structured questionnaires, 24-hour dietary recall forms, and anthropometric measurements, while haemoglobin levels were assessed to determine anaemia prevalence. Findings revealed that indigenous diets, particularly those incorporating protein-rich sources such as fish, snails, seafoods, and bush meats, were associated with higher mean MUAC (27.1 cm), better haemoglobin levels (68% normal), and lower anaemia prevalence (11%) compared to supplement users (24.1 cm MUAC, 42% normal haemoglobin, 25% anaemia). Despite the nutritional richness of these foods, cultural taboos—such as beliefs that snails cause “sluggish babies” or bush meats prolong labour—restricted dietary diversity, while economic and seasonal constraints limited consistent access. The study concludes that food-based interventions, integrated into antenatal care and supported by culturally sensitive education, are more effective than supplement reliance in improving maternal outcomes in rural Ondo State.