Patterns of energy balance-related behaviors and food insecurity in pregnant women

Cien Saude Colet. 2023 Mar;28(3):909-920. doi: 10.1590/1413-81232023283.13342022. Epub 2022 Sep 4.

Abstract

The behaviors related to caloric balance during pregnancy can lead to short- and long-term repercussion over the life course. This study aimed to identify patterns of energy balance-related behavior (EBRB) and its association with food insecurity (FI) in pregnant women. Cross-sectional, with pregnant women undergoing prenatal care in public health units in Colombo, Brazil, in 2018/2019. EBRB patterns were identified by factor analysis, and the scores were compared according to FI levels (mild and moderate/severe (M/S) through quantile regression. Four EBRB patterns were identified among 535 pregnant women: Factor 1- household/caregiving activities, exercise/sport, and physical inactivity; Factor 2 - fruits and vegetables; Factor 3 - paid work and commuting; Factor 4 - soda and sweetened beverage, sweets, and goodies. After adjusted analyses, women with mild FI presented higher scores for Factor 1 and lower scores for Factor 3. Higher scores for Factor 4 (p25) were observed among women with mild FI in simultaneous quantile regression. M/S FI was associated with lower scores for Factor 3 (p75). Mixed patterns with factors negatively and positively associated with energy balance were identified among pregnant women with FI.

MeSH terms

  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Food Insecurity
  • Food Supply*
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnant Women*
  • Prenatal Care