Preliminary study on micronutrients dietary intake pattern among exclusively breastfeeding mothers in Malaysia

Human milk is the first source of exogenous micronutrients among breastfeeding infants. Thus, maternal food intake is important in determining the level of micronutrients in human milk. The purpose of this study is to ascertain the pattern of fluid, iron, calcium, and fiber intake among mothers in Malaysia who are exclusively breastfeeding. A total of n=36 of exclusively breastfeeding mothers was recruited in the study from December 2018 until March 2019. Mothers underwent a survey on anthropometry and demographic factors using a constructed questionnaire. The dietary intake of the mother was collected as data and was analyzed using Nutritionist Pro. Software. Data was analyzed using SPSS software over the lactating stage of the mothers. For iron, the highest mean of intake occurred during fifth to sixth months of lactation period with, 729.07±539.65 mg per day. In addition, the highest mean of intake occurred during the third to fourth months of lactation period with, 729.07±539.65 mg per day while for fiber intake, the highest mean occurred during fifth to sixth months of lactation period with, 6.83±2.53 g per day. For fluid dietary intake, the highest mean occurred during the third to fourth months of lactation period with 2150±783.51ml per day. Overall, the intake for iron and fluid among exclusively breastfeeding mothers were reported to be higher than recommended RNI (2017) value over lactating period. However, calcium and fiber intake reported to be below RNI requirement. Overall, during the postpartum and nursing periods, the mothers' dietary regimen and lifestyle vary dramatically, potentially affecting their nutritional consumption.