Food consumption of different household members in Machakos, Kenya

Abstract

Food consumption of household members in Kenya was assessed by weighing individual intakes of food over a 48 hour period. Energy intake was low for preschool children, adolescent males and lactating mothers. Protein intake was adequate for all age groups. The other nutrient intakes were marginal to low for most age groups. No difference was observed in the type and quality of diets in either sex at different ages, except toddlers. Within households no significant differences were observed in energy adequacy of fathers and lactating mothers. Comparison of mothers with their children showed only a significant difference with one to three‐year‐old toddlers who had less than adequate energy intakes. Household size, socio‐economic status, season and nutritional status of the mother were not related to the energy intake of household members.