Date of Award

5-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

College/School

College for Community Health

Department/Program

Nutrition and Food Studies

Thesis Sponsor/Dissertation Chair/Project Chair

Renata Blumberg

Committee Member

Yeon Bai

Committee Member

Mousumi Bose

Abstract

Nutrition is a common concern during pregnancy, yet women often do not meet the recommended nutrient intakes for a healthy pregnancy. Obtaining reliable food and nutrition information is challenging during pregnancy, and women do not know where to find credible information. AIMS: This study aims to investigate the food and nutrition information-seeking behaviors among low-income pregnant women experiencing their first pregnancy and compare these behaviors with pregnant women who are classified as middle and higher-income status. METHODS: A qualitative survey was developed to identify the type of information women seek, satisfaction with information, application of information to their diet choices, and barriers to seeking information. A total of 211 eligible pregnant women were recruited at a WIC clinic, a medical office, a university campus, and Facebook groups. RESULTS: Women primarily seek information on the internet during pregnancy, especially among the lower and higher-income groups. Women in the higher-income group were more likely to use a Registered Dietitian or nutritionist as a source. More women were being recommended by a family member or friend to see a Registered Dietitian during pregnancy rather than a healthcare provider. The most common barriers in seeking information were the abundance of contradictory information, lack of information tailored to specific needs, and unreliable sources. CONCLUSION: The internet is a frequently used source for information, yet many pregnant women are overwhelmed with contradictory and unreliable information that is not specific to their individual needs. There is an expressed need for improved access to reliable nutrition information during pregnancy and the inclusion of Registered Dietitians as a part of prenatal care.

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