Search

This study was conducted in the Tafresh area of Iran to assess the dietary patterns, time allocation, and nutritional status of rural women in relation to their participation in mixed farming activities. We selected 75 women from 40 villages by applying a stratified random-sampling technique. Cereals and grains were the major source of energy intake. According to the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) tables of India, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the respondents seemed to have no micronutrient and energy deficiencies during the spring season. They spent most of their time and energy on household, animal husbandry, and crop farming activities. According to measurements of body mass index (BMI), the respondents were well nourished. However, despite the high level of BMI, analysis suggested a negative energy balance. Nevertheless, analysis indicated that rural women with negative energy balance spent more time and energy in mixed farming and had a higher level of participation in related activities. Hence, it is evident from the results that the physical contribution of rural women in mixed farming activities has a detrimental effect on their nutritional status, at least during some parts of the year (e.g., spring or summer). Therefore, there is a need to adjust nutritional interventions to improve the sustainability of their food intake and to develop appropriate technologies in mixed farming to alleviate their work burdens.

AbstractIn India, various types of underutilized foods are available seasonally but are not utilized to the extent they should be inspite of their high nutritive value. Looking into the prevalence of high level of micronutrient malnutrition among vulnerable section, utilization of underutilized foods can be explored to overcome the nutritional disorders. Practically, there is no information available on the nutritive value of underutilized foods, which may contribute significantly to the nutrient intake of rural population. Thus, an attempt has been made to identify and analyze various underutilized vegetables for their nutrient content from selected regions of south Karnataka. A total of 38 green leafy vegetables have been identified and the iron content of the same ranged between 3.68 to 37.34mg/100g, the highest iron content was observed in Nelabasale greens, Portulaca oleracea(37.34mg). Calcium content ranged from 73 to 400mg/100g. Chilikere greens, Oxalis acetosella(400mg) had maximum calcium content. The highest ascorbic acid content was found in Knol Khol greens, Brassica oleracea.