Rural Farmers’ Agroforestry Practices In Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract:

The study was conducted to assess rural farmers’ agroforestry practices in Imo State, Nigeria. The population for the study comprised all farmers involved in agroforestry practices in Imo state. Four local government areas (LGAs) were selected out of 27 LGAs in the state using simple random sampling technique. From the four LGAs, two town communities were purposively selected based on their involvement in agroforestry practices giving a total of eight town communities. From each of the eight town communities, four village communities were purposively selected because of their involvement in agroforestry practices making a total of 32 village communities. From the list of agroforestry farmers compiled in each of the village communities by extension agent, five farmers were selected using simple random sampling technique. In all, a total of 160 agroforestry farmers constituted the sample size for the study. Data for the study were collected through interview schedule. Percentage, charts, Mean statistics, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Duncan multiple range test and factor analysis were used in analyzing the data. Results showed that the average age of the farmers was 54 years. Majority (56.7%) of the respondents was male and married (73.1%). The average household size of the farmers was 7 persons. Majority (56.9%) of the farmers got their income from sale of farm products and 35.6% of them engage in trading as their secondary occupation. Majority (68.8%) of the farmers belonged to various organization. About 53% of the farmers had contact with extension agents in the last one year and the average extension contact was 2 times. The average size of land used for agroforestry practices was less than one hectare. Majority (96.9%) of the farmers practiced home gardens. There was an increase in the number of farmers involved in agroforestry practices in the last five years (47.5%). Majority (84.4%) of the farmers planted banana in their farm as the major tree component of agroforestry and majority (98.1%) of farmers cultivated yam as the crop components of the agroforestry practice. The average number of trees planted/protected in the homestead and farmstead varies significantly over the years. There was a decline in the average number of trees planted and/or protected both in the homestead and farmstead from the year 2009 to 2013. The result showed that pruning (87.5%) was the major management strategy used by farmers to maintain their trees while majority (98.8%) of respondents practiced agroforestry to improve soil fertility. Major constraints to agroforestry practices were grouped into knowledge constraints, tree growth constraints and market constraints. The major effective strategy for enhancing agroforestry practices was to increase the awareness of agroforestry practice through training and workshop.

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Rice Husk Generation And Utilization Among Households In Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Abstract:

This study focused on rice husk generation and utilization among households in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: describe the socio-economic characteristics of households in Ebonyi State; evaluate the perception of respondents on the effects of rice husk generation and utilization on the environment; estimate willingness to pay (WTP) for the removal of rice husk from the environment; determine the socio-economic factors influencing the respondents WTP for the removal of rice husk from the environment; determine the extent of rice husk generation and utilization in the study area; and identify the constraints to rice husk utilization among households in Ebonyi State. Hypothesis: Socio-economic characteristics of households do not significantly determine their willingness to pay for the removal of rice husk from the farmland. Purposive sampling technique was used to select rice production and rice milling areas while random sampling technique was used to select the respondents. Data were collected by the use of structured questionnaire. Data collected were analysed using mean score, contingency valuation method (CVM) ¬- (tobit regression) and F-test. The result of the analysis showed that rice husk is generated in large quantities in the study area while rice husk utilization is still at rudimentary stage. Annual income, years of education, farm size, age and farming experience were positively related to households willingness to pay for the removal of rice husk from the farmland at 5% probability level while household size and distances of homes/farms from rice milling centers (RMCs) were inversely related to WTP with the pseudo R2 value of 77%. The mean WTP for the removal of rice husk from the environment was N960. The result from mean score used to identify the constraints to rice husk utilization indicated four major constraints to include: lack of awareness; cost of transportation; lack of environmental concern and insufficient information about proper use. Recommendation: Government should commercialize rice husk utilization since the findings showed that it was generated in high quantity in the study area to offer employment to people and at the same time solve the environmental problems created by uncoordinated disposal of rice husk that causes land air and water pollution and conserve the nation’s finite reserve of petroleum.

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Growth, Gonadal Development, And Blood Profile In African Catfish (Clarias Gariepinus, Burchell 1822) Fed Diets Containing Cocoa Bean Meal

Abstract:

A 63 day experiment was conducted to determine the effect of varying dietary levels of cocoa bean meal (CBM) on the body growth, gonadal development, and blood lipid profile of Clarias gariepinus catfish. Four hundred C. gariepinus post-fingerlings were randomly assigned to five treatments with eighty fish per treatment. Each treatment was replicated four times with 20 fish per replicate in a randomized completely block design (RCBD) with sex as a block. Diets (35% crude protein) containing 0, 10, 20, 40, and 50% CBM were formulated to be fed to the fish in treatments 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 respectively. Before the commencement of feeding the experimental diet, ten fish (five males and five females) were randomly collected from the various treatments, weighed, dissected, and the gonads (ovaries and testes) harvested and fixed in a bouins fluid. The fixed samples were them taken to the laboratory for histologic and histomorphometric studies. After three weeks of feeding the experimental diets, eight fish (four males and four females) were randomly selected from the various treatments. The gonads were also harvested and fixed for laboratory studies. Further random selections of the fish for laboratory studies were done on fortnightly basis till the 9th week of the study. At the end of the study, four fish from each treatment were selected and blood samples were collected from them for haematology and blood lipid profile. Body weights and lengths measurements were made and recorded on weekly basis. Feed was given to the fish at 5% bio mass and the water changed weekly to ensure freshness. Results of the study showed that the average final standard length, average standard length gain, average final total length, and total length gain were not significantly (P≥0.05) different among the treatments. The average total weight and total weight gain however differed significantly (P<0.05) among the treatments.T2 (10% CBM) had the highest average weight gain value (8.44g). T1 (control) had value (3.59g) which was significantly (P<0.05) lower than T2. T5 (50% CBM) has the lowest value (0.98g) which was also significantly (P<0.05) lower than T2 and the control. T3 and T4 had values (5.55, and 3.59g respectively) which did not differ significantly (P≥0.05) from those of T2 and the control. Also, ovarian weight, testicular weight and GSI values were shown to be significantly (P<0.05) different among the treatment groups. T2 females had the highest ovarian weight and GSI values (2.356g and 6.22) which significantly (P<0.05) different from T3 (0.58g and 1.65 respectively), T1 (0.358g and 1.124 respectively), and T5 (0.36g and 1.21 respectively) which had the least values. T4 had values (1.27g and 3.95 respectively) which did not differ significantly (P≥0.05) from the other groups. Similar result was obtained for the males. T2 and T4 had the highest testicular weight and GSI values. The least values were reported for T5. T3 and the control were found not to differ significantly (P<0.05) from other groups. The results obtained for the histology and Histomorphology showed that the gonads of fish in T2 and T4 were better developed than those of the other groups. T5 was least developed as indicated by lower GSI, tubular diameter and oocyte stages and diameters. Results of the haematology showed there were no significant (P≥0.05) different in the haematological indices of Packed cell volume, haemoglobin, red blood cells, monocyte, eosinophil, and basophil. However, the white blood cell count, neutrophil, and lymphocyte were significantly (P<0.05) different among the treatment groups. The blood lipid profile showed that low density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, and triglyceride differed significantly (P<0.05) among the treatment groups. High density lipoprotein was however not significantly (P≥0.05) different. From the result, it was therefore concluded that feeding cocoa bean meal up to 40% dietary inclusion improved growth and gonadal development. Above this level however (i.e. at 50%), the fish were adversely affected. 20 and 40% CBM dietary inclusion is hence recommended if improved reproductive development and performance is of interest.

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Impact of Climate Change on Wildlife Resource Conservation in Nsukka Agricultural Zone of Enugu State

Abstract:

Five research questions were answered and five null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data for the study. The population for the study was 138 comprising 115 registered farmers (hunters) and 23 extension agents in Nsukka Agricultural Zone of Enugu State. No sample was drawn as the population was manageable. The research instrument was subjected to face validation by three experts, all from the Department of Agricultural Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The instrument was trial tested on 20 respondents outside the study area. The data collected were subjected to reliability test using Cronbach Alpha which yielded a coefficient of 0.78. The instrument was administered by the researcher with the help of three research assistants. One hundred and thirty four out of 138 copies of the instrument administered were duly completed and returned reflecting a return rate of 97%. The data collected were analyzed using Mean to answer research questions while t-test was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance(p). Findings of the study, among others, revealed that flooding destroys nesting home for wildlife; drought affects forest tree growth and regeneration; drought conditions alter breeding sites; climate change favours the growth of plant pests and diseases; heavy rainfall events cause flooding of wildlife habitat; thunder storm sets habitats on fire; alteration of habitat by extreme weather events makes habitat unconducive; strong winds pull down tree and expose the habitat and excessive sunshine affects vegetative growth. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended among others that the findings on the impact of climate change on wildlife habitat should be packaged and used as tool for public enlightenment and education by the National Orientation Agency to sensitize Nigerians on the dangers of climate change.

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Evaluation of Dietary Supplementation with Talinum Triangulare Extract on Egg Quality and Quantity, Haematology, and Serum Biochemistryin Pullets

Abstract:

Poultry products are among the most valuable sources of animal protein, and offer a means of meeting the animal protein needs of the population. Compounded poultry feed, physical inactivity of the birds due to overcrowding and certain unhealthy habits like pecking are major setbacks to intensive poultry production. The result is high cost and high cholesterol content of products. The later has been a cause for concern to health-conscious consumers. High blood cholesterol levels have been associated with chronic diseases of high public health importance such as atherosclerosis, stroke, and obesity. Healthy dieting has been found to reduce the incidence, morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases. Plant based food sources generally contain lower levels of cholesterol and are known to promote cholesterol excretion from the body. Talinum traingulare (TT) is a highly nutritive vegetable associated with favourable blood lipid profile in humans and broilers. However, there is paucity of information in available literature on its use on pullets. The aim of the study was to evaluate the use of TT as a nutraceutical to improve the quantity and quality of egg produced. The Specific objectives of the study were to evaluate: (i) the nutrient and phytochemical components of TT, (ii) the effects of supplementation of pullet diets with varied forms and doses of TT extract on egg production, characteristics, and cholesterol content and (iii) the effects of supplementation of pullet diets with varied forms and doses of TT exract on haematology and serum biochemistry of the pullets. The study adopted the experimental design. Talinum triangulare used for the study was sourced from Nsukka and identified by a plant taxonomist. Dried and freshly harvested samples of TT were used for the study. The plant was harvested, washed, and drained and (for the dried sample) was further dried under shade and pulverized. Extraction was done using cold maceration method with water over a period of 48 hours. In experiments one and two extracts for the study were subjected to quantitative nutrient analyses and qualitative phytochemical analyses following standard procedures. The animal study was in two phases – pullet supplementation (experiment three), and layer supplementation (experiment four). For experiment three, 90 chick pullets were randomly assigned into three groups (PA, PB, and PC) of 30 pullets each. Pullets in PA were given 1000 mg of the dried extract of TT/L of water; those in PB were given 1000 mg of the fresh extract of TT/L of water while those in PC were the unsupplemented control. Haematology and serum biochemistry were evaluated at two months interval within the six months of supplementation. In Experiment four, 210 laying birds were randomly assigned into seven groups (LA1, LA2, LA3, LB1, LB2, LB3 and LC) of 30 layers each. The TT extracts were given at 62.5, 250, and 1000 mg/l doses in dried form for LA1 LA2, and LA3 and fresh form for LB1, LB2, and LB3, respectively. Layers in the LC group served as unspplemented control. The egg quality and quantity, cholesterol content, haematology, and serum biochemistry of the birds were determined using standard procedures at two months interval during the 12 months of supplementation. Data generated from the study were subjected to one way analyses of variance (ANOVA) and variant means were separated using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) method. Significance was accepted at P < 0.05. The proximate composition of the TT extract were 21.96% protein, 28.09% ash, 17.38% crude fibre, 26.37% carbohydrate, 1.66% fat, 4.54% moisture and 208.27 kcal/kg energy. The mineral constituents (mg/100 g TT) were Calcium (856.53), Magnesium (1076.38), Iron (42.11), Potassium (6063.66), Sodium (39.78), Phosphorus (241.24), Zinc (10.67), and Copper (0.96). The qualitative phytochemical constituents were alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and glycosides. Hen-Day-Rate (HDR) of egg production revealed that birds in LA (LA1, LA2, and LA3) groups laid significantly (p < 0.05) more eggs than birds in LB groups (LB1, LB2, and LB3), and the control groups (LC). The total cholesterol (TChol) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) of the eggs from layers in groups LA2 and LA3 were significantly (p < 0.05) lower than the untreated group especially by the 2nd, 4th, and 6th months of lay. The egg high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) of the LA2, LA3, LB2, and LB3, were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those of other supplemented groups and the control especially by the 4th, and 8th months of lay. The packed cell volume, red blood cell count, haemoglobin concentration, total and differential leukocyte counts as well as serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase and total protein activities did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) in all the groups. The serum Tchol and LDL-C of groups LA2 and LA3 were significantly (p < 0.05) lower than those of other groups. The serum HDL-C of LA2 and LA3 were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the control at 4th month of lay. Dietary supplementation with TT had no significant impact on haematology and liver enzymes; and had no adverse effect on health and production status of treated pullets. Specific egg-laying production parameters like hen day rate of production, Haugh Unit and Yolk Index increased following treatment of TT. Supplementation with TT reduced the concentration of LDL-C and increased HDL-C in the sera of treated pullets and in the eggs they laid. There was a significant increase in triacylglycerol level of over 600 per cent which occurred with the chick - pullets at the fourth month of life and was sustained in the laying birds till the end of the experiment (12th month of lay). Almost in all cases the dried sample had advantage over the freshly harvested sample and the high dose over the medium and low doses in that order. Aqueous extract from dried and freshly harvested Talinum triangulare (waterleaf) plant showed high potential of nutritional and phytochemical relevance and supports possible medicinal and dietary application in pullets. Use of TT extract for the prevention and treatment of CVD in poultry and production of designer – eggs low in cholesterol for human consumption is proposed based on the outcome of this study.

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Iodine and Nutritional Status of Primary School Children in Okpuje, Nsukka L.G.A Enugu State, Nigeria.

Abstract:

This study was designed to assess iodine and nutritional status of primary school children in a rural community, Okpuje, using recommended quantifiable indicators. A total of 395 school children, 6-12 years (204 males and 191 females) were selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure. Structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on socioeconomic status (name, age, class, sex, parents occupation and household size). Dietary information was obtained using 24hour dietary recall and food frequency questionnaire. Heights and weights of the children were measured using approved methods. Age was assessed using school records. The WHO Z score system was used to classify stunting, wasting and underweight among the children. Goiter was assessed clinically by a trained nurse using the standard palpation method. Salt samples were collected from Okpuje market and the children were asked to bring salts (10g) from their mother’s kitchen to test for iodine content. Urinary iodine excretion (UIE) levels of 20% sub-sample study subjects, selected through simple random sampling by balloting without replacement, were analyzed using the Sandell-Koltholf reaction to determine the urinary levels of iodine. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis. Results showed that children were from predominantly farming communities and consumed monotonous diets. Twenty four hour dietary recall revealed that majority of the children ate 3 times a day and consumed cereals and cassava based diets for breakfast, lunch and supper. No child was found with goiter. The prevalence of stunting, wasting and underweight were 19.5%, 8.9% and 8.5%, respectively. Wasting was more in male children than in female children. Underweight and stunting were more in females than males. Stunting and wasting was more in older children (10-12 years) while underweight was more in younger children (6-9years). The mean UIE was 124.7mcg/l. About 96% of the children had UIE value consistent with adequate intake (UIE > 100mcg/l). A total of 3.8% of the children had UIE less than 100mcg/l. Iodine content of 395 salt samples from home, tested with spot testing kit revealed that 94.2% had iodine greater than 15ppm and 5.8% had iodine less than 15ppm. No salt sample was found without iodine. The entire salt sample collected from the market had iodine greater than 15ppm. The mean urinary excretion of 124.7mcg/l obtained in this study suggests no biochemical iodine deficiency in majority of the respondents and indicates that Okpuje in Nsukka LGA is in the transition phase of iodine deficiency to iodine sufficiency.

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Land Lease Market and its Effects on Crop Production in Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract:

This study empirically assessed the effects of land lease market on crop production in Enugu State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: describe the socio-economic characteristics of crop farmers; identify the land tenure systems available in the study area; identify and describe the structure and conducts of land lease market; ascertain factors influencing land lease market; determine the influence of land lease forms and practices adopted by farmers on their net farm income; and identify the constraints facing farmers participation in land lease market. The study was guided by the following null hypotheses: socio-economic characteristics of crop farmers do not significantly affect farmers participation in land lease market; and land lease forms adopted by farmers do not significantly affect their net farm income. A multistage simple random sampling technique was used in the selection of the respondents. Data for the study were collected from a sample of 120 crop farmers whose responses were sought on the type of land tenure systems, structure and conducts of land lease market and constraints facing them in participating in land lease market through the use of well structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, logit regression model, multiple regression model and likert scale rating technique were employed in data analysis. The study revealed that majority (63.3%) of farmers in the study area fell within 50 years and below which is an active age for farming activities. Educational attainments of the respondents were mostly secondary and tertiary education. About 75% of the respondents were married and 74.2% of them were males, while 78.35% had a household size of ten persons and less. The study further showed that 67.5% of the respondents had communal land tenure system while 68.3% participated in other forms of land lease market with fixed rental market being a dominant form of land lease market. Furthermore, logit regression analysis indicated that farm size, transaction cost and farming experience were found to have played significant role in influencing farmers’ participation in land lease market. Multiple regression result showed that area of land rented, share of output, cost of input and educational level were significant in determining the influence of land lease forms and practices on farmers’ net farm income. High transaction cost, unavailability of land, crop failure, distance of land from home, fear of family intervention, lack of security, and poor land improvement were identified as the major constraints faced by crop farmers in participating in land lease market. The study therefore, recommended that a good tenancy system be developed to guarantee adequate security of tenure to the occupants (the person actually cultivating the land). This will no doubt, contribute to both agricultural development and land resource conservation.

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An Economic Study of the Effects of Climate Change on Food Security in Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract:

The study examined the climate change (climate change extreme events and household climate change adaptation practice) effects on the food security status of the households in Taraba State Nigeria. The primary data used in this work was collected using a random sampling selection of three (3) agricultural zones, 5 local government areas, 10 communities, and 120 respondents from the sample frame. The 3 agricultural zones selected were zing, Bali, and Wukari. Five (5) local government areas were proportionately selected from the 3 zones viz: Jalingo, Lau, Wukari, Kurumi and Bali. Data was collected using an interview schedule. Information were collected on the household socio economic characteristics, the climate change extreme event happenings in the area, the household adaptation practices of the area, food security, and food insecurity coping strategies of the households. The analytical tools employed in analyzing the data were descriptive and inferential statistics, simple and multiple correlation, multiple regression, Rasch model, percentages, mean, graphs, likert scale rating. Results showed that households in Taraba were faced with the problems of climate extreme events, and the households are making conscious efforts to adapt to the shocks of this events, mostly by using ecological adaptation and storage. The Rasch model analysis showed that majority of the households (77.85%) were food insecure with severe hunger, 20.4% were food insecure with moderate hunger, and only 1.9% were food insecure without hunger but no household was found to be food secure in the study area. The regression results showed that food insecurity increases with increase in the household experience of the extreme events. Events like heat wave, harmattan, pests and diseases, and drying up of streams and rivers were considered by the households as having serious impact on food security and this was confirmed by the regression result which showed that these events significantly affected food security of the households. The study also found out that the more adaptation strategies practiced by the households the more food secure they were. Market exchange and diversification classes of adaptation had an inverse relationship with food insecurity. Majority of the households (87%) relied on less preferred and less expensive foods as their food insecurity coping strategies. Only 17.6% employed sending household members to beg. The socio economic factor that had negative effect on the household food security were, having children in the home, household size, and having a civil servant as the head of the household. Rate of adaptation practices of the household and income had a positive effect on the food security of the household. Good weather forecast system was recommended and that government should make effort to enlighten their citizens on the dangers of these extreme event and proffer ways of improving the environment. People should be encouraged to embrace market exchange and diversification as a means of adapting to climate change as this will increase their resilience and reduce their vulnerability.

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Effect of Varying Levels of Pawpaw Leaf Meal (Carica Papaya) on Growth Performance of Finishing Broilers.

Abstract:

Sixty “day old” broiler chickens were used to evaluate the growth performance, haematological parameters, organ characteristics and meat quality of broiler birds fed, pawpaw leaf meal (PLM). The birds were divided into four treatments with three replicates per treatment. Each replicate contained five birds. Broiler finisher rations were formulated in which PLM was incorporated at levels of 0%, 0.5%, 1.5%, and 2.0% in the control (T1), T2, T3 and T4 diets respectively. The diets were isocaloric and isonitrogenous containing 2850kcal ME/ Kg and 20% CP Daily feed intake in grams per bird per day (g/b/d) Daily Body Weight gain (g/b/d), Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) and Feed cost per kilogram gain in Naira (N) were determined. Four birds were slaughtered at the end of the 10th week of birds’ age for meat strength and organoleptic determinations. All data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) for a Completely Randomized Design. Results showed that the effect of treatments on Average Daily Weight Gain (g) (ADWG), Average Final Body Weight (AFBW), Average Daily Feed Intake (ADFI) (g/b), and Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) were significant (P < 0.05). There is a progressive increase in Daily Weight gain and Daily Feed intake as the dietary level of PLM increased. Haematological parameters of birds in all the treatments were within the normal haematological values of broiler birds within their age. There is an improved performance as level of PLM in diets increased from T1 toT4 in all the parameters evaluated. Similarly, there is an observed intense colour change of the shanks as the dietary level increased from 0.5% to 2.0%. The effect of feeding increasing dietary levels of PLM in Colour, Tenderness and General Acceptability of broiler meat were significantly (P<0.05) better than the control diet. The incorporation of PLM into finisher broiler diets had nutritional benefits which led to general improved performance in body weight changes, FCR, Feed cost/kg gain, Carcass and Organ Examinations, Haematologicals parameters, Organoleptic indices and Meat strength of broiler birds. It is concluded that 2% PLM can be included in the diets of finishing broilers without any adverse effect on performance.

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Influence of Nutrition and Body Condition at First Mating on the Reproductive Performance of Gilts in the Humid Tropics

Abstract:

Two experiments were conducted at the piggery unit of the Department of Animal Science Farm, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, from July 2007 to March 2009, to determine the effect of nutrition and body condition at first mating on the reproductive performance of gilts. The first experiment evaluated the effects of feeding different combinations of protein and energy diets on age at onset of first observed oestrus, growth rate, backfat reserve and body condition score of the gilts from weaning to puberty. Fifty-four (54), eight week old weaner gilts were used for this trial. They were randomly assigned to nine experimental treatment diets having different combinations of protein (16%, 18% and 20% crude protein) and energy (2800 kcal/kg, 3000kcal/kg and 3200kcal/kg) with six (6) gilts per treatment. The gilts in each treatment were housed in pairs making up three (3) replicates per treatment. Estrus detection was carried out twice daily at 0800hr and 1600hrs in the presence of mature boar beginning from the age of five months. Blood samples were collected from two pigs per treatment by humane puncture of the ear vein for haematological and biochemical analysis. In addition, two (2) gilts from each treatment were randomly selected, slaughtered and their reproductive organs excised and examined. Linear body measurements (body length, chest girth, height at withers and flank-to-flank) were also recorded. Data collected were analyzed according to factorial arrangement of treatments in a completely randomized design (CRD) whereas stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was used to generate prediction equations between body weight and linear body measurements. In experiment 2, eighteen (18) gilts with different body conditions and backfat thickness were selected and assigned to experimental treatments with six gilts per treatment. All the gilts were weighed and mated twice at the second observed estrus. Pregnancy was confirmed by the gilt not returning to heat after 21 days of observation for signs of heat after breeding. Gilts were fed 2.1 kg of an 18% CP diet daily throughout gestation. Their feed was increased to 3.0 kg of feed daily during lactation until weaning. Gilts were monitored and their reproductive indices recorded throughout gestation and lactation. The pre-weaning performances of their piglets were also recorded until weaning at day 35. Data collected were subjected to one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for a completely randomized design (CRD). Results of the first experiment indicated that diet containing 3000kcal/kg or 3200kcal/kg metabolizable energy and 18% crude protein was the optimum required for gilts to grow faster and reach the minimum threshold of age, body weight, backfat reserve and body condition necessary for early attainment of first oestrus and future reproductive processes. On the other hand, the result also showed that when pork of a moderate fatness (lean pork) is in demand, gilts should be fed diets having 2800kcal/kg of metabolisable energy and either 16 or 18% crude protein. High coefficient of determination (R2) values of 0.96, 0.95, 0.93 and 0.45, respectively, were recorded between body (Y) weight and body length (BL), heart girth (HG), flank-to-flank (FF) and height-at-withers (HW) measurements. Prediction equations for body weight of the gilts were, Y = 0.83 x BL – 33.53, Y = 1.07 x HG – 37.86, Y = 1.22 x FF – 37.14 and Y = 0.86 x HW – 14.83. Results of the multiple linear regression showed that with effective management, farmers, researchers and prospective pig buyers can use the prediction equations for body length, heart girth and flank-to-flank measurements to easily estimate the body weight of their pigs especially, during selection, drug administration and/or determination of market weight and prices. In the second experiment, results showed that body condition of gilts at mating affected their gestation weight gain, lactation body weight losses, litter size at birth and weaning, growth rate of their piglets, pre-weaning mortality and weaning-to-estrus intervals, etc in favour of gilts with normal and fat body conditions. It was concluded that in any commercial pig industry where the management is interested in increasing sow lifetime productivity, replacement gilts should be scored for body condition both subjectively and objectively using ultrasonic equipment to determine their readiness to undergo the stress of growth and reproduction. From an economic point of view, this is an important factor that should be considered to determine the total value of pigs produced within a given cycle. Hence, it is recommended that breeding gilts should have at least between 15mm and 18mm backfat thickness at first mating for effective and more balanced reproductive processes.

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Production And Evaluation Of Extruded Snacks From Composite Flour Of Bambara Groundnut (Voandzeia Subterranea (L) Thoaur ), Hungry Rice (Digitaria Exilis Staph.) And Carrot (Daucus Carota L.)

Abstract:

Cleaned Bambara groundnut seeds were divided into four lots. Each lot was separately pretreated thus: germinated, roasted, germinated and roasted, and unprocessed which served as control. Each sample was ground, sieved, and extruded using single screw extruder. Consumer preference test was done by a taste panel of 50 people who rated the products on the attributes of colour, taste, flavour and overall acceptability using a 9-point hedonic scale. The treatment (roasting) given on the most preferred product was adopted in producing composite of bambara and “acha” flour, which was mixed with graded levels of carrot and other ingredients, and extruded. The product samples were subjected to analyses for chemical composition, residual anti-nutrients, physico-chemical and sensory properties using standard methods. The samples were stored for six months under ambient conditions (28±2ºC) and analysed at 2 months interval for moisture, texture, provitamin A (b-carotene) and sensory properties. Extruded snacks from the composite of bambara groundnut, hungry rice and carrot had high protein (15-16%), b-carotene (180-550.13mg/100g retinol) and minerals (iron and zinc) contents. Inclusion of carrot to the composite increased (p£0.05) the b-carotene content of the product, when compared with the control. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) between the sensory qualities of the control and products with 5% to 15% carrot. Extrusion cooking significantly (p<0.05) reduced moisture content and brought about concentration of other proximate components. It also significantly (p£0.05) reduced phytate from 91.01-81.11mg/100g to 36.75-30.58mg/100g, tannin from 0.16mg-0.26/100g to 0.06-0.09mg/100g. Trypsin inhibitor and haemagglutinin activities were reduced from 6.81-8.32mg/100g and 4.01-6.50Hu/mg protein, respectively, to undetectable levels. Extrusion cooking improved protein digestibility of the snacks. b-carotene and minerals were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by the extrusion cooking, while there was a significant reduction (p<0.05) of vitamin C from 6.21-8.96mg/100g to 2.51-4.05mg/100g in the extruded snacks. Significant (p<0.05) reductions were observed in vitamin B1(40-50%), B2(15-24%), B3(15-24%) and B6(25-30%) content of the extruded snacks. Storage for six months did not adversely influence the sensory characteristics of the developed snacks. It is evident from the composition of the developed products that protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency problems can be averted through dietary diversification and extrusion cooking technology.

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Food Consumption Pattern, Anthropometric Indices and Micronutrient Status of Children Aged 6 – 59 Months in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract:

The study was undertaken to assess food consumption pattern, anthropometric and micronutrient status of children aged 6-59 months in Kaduna state. A cross sectional survey design was used. A multi stage sampling technique was used to select the subjects for the study. In the first stage, two Local Government Areas were selected from each of the three senatorial districts using simple random sampling procedure. This gave a total of 6 Local Government Areas. In the second stage, purposive sampling was used in selecting two communities from each of the local government areas (a total of 12 communities). At the third stage, the subjects (420) aged 6 – 59 months were randomly selected for the study using proportionate sampling technique while 20% sub- sample was selected for biochemical analysis. Anthropometric information was determined using age, height and weight of the children. Haemoglobin (Hb) was used to determine anemia, serum retinol was used to determine vitamin A status and also iodine was determined using urinary iodine excretion level (UIE). Anemia was defined as Hb < 11.0mg/dl, Vitamin A deficiency was defined was defined as reading ≤ 10g/dl and marginal deficiency <20g/dl. Urinary iodine excretion (UIE) is defined as a reading <10mcg/dl. Socio-economic information and feeding practices were determined using questionnaire. The questionnaire was pretested and reliability index of 0.9 was obtained using Cronbach alpha. Dietary intake was determined using a combination of food frequency questionnaire and 24hour food recall. In determining the major staples in the area of study, the result showed that maize was the most frequent staple and rice (cereals) the least consumed in Kaduna State. Anthropometric results of the children showed high prevalence of different categories of malnutrition, 76.4% were too thin for their age (underweight), 70% were too short for their age (stunted) while (47.6)% were too thin for their height (wasted).Biochemical results , revealed high prevalence of anaemia (53.6%) urinary iodine execration (29.2%) and vitamin A as low as( 3.6%) of the children were deficient. Correlation between anthropometric, biochemical status and socioeconomic information revealed height-for-age of the children and their weight-for-age was highly significant (r = 0.666; P<0.001). The following variables also showed significant relationship: Iodine status with height – for – age was significant (r =0.353; P < 0.05). There was a significant (r = 0.664; P < 0.01) relationship between weight – for- height and weight- for –age. Iodine and weight- for- age was significant ( r =0.308; P < 0.005). Hemoglobin correlated with iodine (r = 0.226; P < 0.05). There was a significant(r =0.333; P < 0.02) relationship between Vitamin A and iodine. Vitamin A and hemoglobin was highly significant (r = 0.460; P < 0.01).Family income and weight- for -age was significant(r = 0.247; P< 0.05). There were more correlated values that were significant, fathers occupation with family income( r = 0.252; P<0.005), mother’s occupation with family income( r = 0.262; P < 0.005), fathers education with family income ( r = 0.340;P<0.005) and mothers occupation with fathers occupation (r =0.397;P<0.001).Equally fathers occupation and mothers education was significant(r=0.371;P< 0.005) and fathers education with mothers education (r =0.230;P< 0.005).These results were as a result of faulty feeding practices especially over-dependence on a particular crop(monotonous diets fed to the children) and low socio-economic status of the parents. The study established that there is malnutrition in under five children in Kaduna.

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Effect of Maternal Nutrition Knowledge and Nutritional Status on Pregnancy Outcome in Rural and Urban Areas of Ebonyi State, Nigeria.

Abstract:

The main purpose of this study was to assess the effect of maternal nutrition knowledge and nutritional status on pregnancy outcome in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study sought to describe the general characteristics of pregnant women in rural and urban areas of Ebonyi State, to assess the nutrition knowledge of the respondents; assess their dietary practices and their perception of the effect of poor nutrition on pregnancy outcome in rural and urban areas of Ebonyi state; determine the mortality rate of neonates in the study area; determine the nutritional status of the respondents and anthropometric indices of their neonates; determine the effect of mother’s nutrition knowledge and nutritional status on pregnancy outcome in Ebonyi State. The population for this study was made up of all the pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in hospitals and maternity homes in Ebonyi State. Ebonyi state was stratified into three strata. Simple random sampling was used to draw four hundred pregnant women who participated in the study. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Information from focus group discussion was used to produce the questionnaire. A three day weighed food intake was conducted on a sub-sample of 60 respondents. Their height and weight were also taken and compared with standards. Anthropometric indices of neonates and haemoglobin status of the respondents were collected from their hospital folders (records). Data collected were analysed using mean, standard deviation, correlation and regression analyses. Findings revealed that 70.4% of the respondents were from rural community, while 29.6% were from urban; 22.5% were adolescents, 76.2% were middle aged, while 1.3% were older women. All the respondents were Christians. Majority (90.6%) were married while 9.4% were single. About 86.6% of the respondents were fairly educated. More than half of the respondents (66.5%) were farmers, traders and artisans, while 14.5% were government workers. About 64.5% earned between N30,000 – N100,000; 26.8% and 26.3% earned high and low income, respectively. Twenty percent (20%), 32.9% and 47.1% had poor, fair and good knowledge respectively of the foods that make up an adequate diet; 90.4% and 9.6% had poor and fair knowledge of nutrient sources and deficiencies. More rural respondents skipped their meals because they were not hungry; 98.5% of the respondents ate snacks, while 52.2%, 66.3% and 50.8% ate more in the first, second and third trimesters of their pregnancies. Weight gain was normal for 32.7% while 61.5% of the respondents gained above normal weight. About 86.1% and 13.9% had normal and poor haemoglobin status, respectively. LBW rate was 4.8% (urban 8.5% and rural 3.2%); 95.2%, 63.5%, 79%, 99.1%, 89.9% and 89.9% of the neonates had normal birth weight, birth length, head circumference, chest circumference, abdominal circumference, and placental weight. There was a significant (p= <0.05) relationship between haemoglobin status and placental size; and also between calcium, protein and iron intake and neonatal birth weight and placental weight. Maternal protein intake and riboflavin intake were associated with neonatal abdominal circumference and maternal haemoglobin status, respectively. Maternal nutrition knowledge did not affect neonatal weight. In conclusion, the low prevalence of low LBW recorded in this study is an indication of the effectiveness of maternal and child care programme in Ebonyi State. Also, the early registration and regular antenatal checkups, the use of supplements and some pregnancy adaptations must have contributed to the normal weight gain and Hb levels. The positive relationship between calcium intake and LBW needs to be carefully considered, while the negative relationship protein and riboflavin intakes and LBW need further investigation. The findings of this study support the reactivation and expansion of the mother and child health pragramme and free antenatal care in the State.

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Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Organic Selenium at Different Levels on Reproductive Performance of Rabbit Does

Abstract:

The effect of dietary supplementation of organic selenium at different levels on reproductive performance of rabbit does was investigated using 16 (12 does and 4 bucks) rabbits. The rabbits were of New Zealand white, Dutch and chinchilla breeds. The twelve rabbit does were randomly assigned to four experimental treatment groups (T0, T1, T2 and T3) according to the amount of organic selenium supplementation in a completely randomized design (CRD). Rabbits in T0 served as the control and received 0.00mg/kg Se supplement diet daily, while those in T1, T2 and T3 were given 0.15, 0.30 and 0.45 mg/kg organic selenium yeast, respectively. Each rabbit in a treatment was housed in individual cage and served as replicate. Rabbits in each treatment were mated using four bucks (one buck per treatment). The parameters measured were: birth weight of the litters, body weight of the dam after kindling, litter sizes at birth including stillbirths, conception rate, gestation length, body weight of does during gestation, litter weight at weaning, litter sizes at weaning and growth rates of kits. . Haematological parameters and oxidative enzymes were also determined. Results showed that selenium supplementation in the diets had no significant (p > 0.05) effect on gestation length, litter size at birth, number of stillbirth, doe body weights at kindling and litter body weights at birth. However, selenium supplementation had significant effect (p < 0.05) on litter size at weaning, litter body weight at weaning and pre – weaning weight gain of kits during lactation. Doe weight gain during gestation and growth rate of kits were not significantly (p > 0.05) different among the treatment groups. Weight gain of kits at weaning was higher in treatment one with only two kits as the average kits weaned. Litter size at weaning was significantly higher at treatment 3 (6.50) and for treatment 2 (5.00). The higher values in number of kits at birth, birth weight of kits and litter size weaned as recorded in treatment 2 showed the significant role of selenium as an anti-stress in the diets of the animal. Inclusion levels of selenium had no significant (p > 0.05) effect on such haematological indices on RBC of rabbits. However, there were significant differences (p < 0.05) among treatment group on haematological values of Hb, PVC, Neutrophils and eosinophils. There was a significant difference (p < 0.0.5) among treatment groups on follicule stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion, however no difference was found in LH. Selenium in the diets of rabbit does had no significant effect (p > 0.05) on such oxidative enzymes like catalase, , selenium and reduced glutathione. However, there were significant differences (p < 0.05) among the treatment groups on oxidative enzymes of MDA, SOD and glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, and glutathione transferase with higher significant (p < 0.05) effect on SOD. It was therefore concluded that under good nutritional and other management practices, inclusion of selenium in diets of rabbit does at 0.30mg/kg feed will increase the number of kits per doe per year even though best results for weight gain of litters at weaning were obtained with 0.15mg/kg selenium supplementation in the diet and this will enhance maximum productive performance, thus maximum/higher economic returns from the enterprise.

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Effect of Ivermectin Intake on the Nutritional and Health Status of School Children in Onchocerciasis Endemic Communities of Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Abstract:

The study assessed the nutritional and health status of school-aged children (5-12 years) in onchocerciasis endemic communities of Ebonyi State and determined the effect of Ivermectin intake on haemoglobin and parasitic load of the children. The study was conducted in Ebonyi State of Nigeria. A multi stage random sampling technique was used in selecting respondents for the study. A total sample of 360 school aged children aged 5 – 12 years (made up of 194 males and 166 females) participated in the study. A structured, validated and pretested questionnaire was used to elicit vital information. The weight and height of the children were taken using standard procedures. Blood samples of the children were subjected to haematological analyses within 12 hours of collection. Haemoglobin levels were determined using cyanomethaemoglobin method. The WHO body mass index (BMI) for age z scores and the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) were used to classify the children. Stool microscopy was carried out to detect parasitic infection. Secondary data were sourced from relevant documents of the Ebonyi State Ministry of Health, State Onchocerciasis Office and other relevant research materials. Data generated from this study were keyed into Excel spreadsheet and later summarized using SPSS 16.0 version. Frequency distribution, percentages, mean, charts and Chi - square were the statistical tools used for the analysis. The 24 hour dietary recall data showed that majority of the respondents ate cassava-based food for breakfast and dinner quite often. Less than 2.0% of the respondents frequently consumed chicken, egg and meat. Fruits were not frequently consumed by majority (73.6%) of the children. Irrespective of the standard used, the indicators of nutritional status showed high prevalence of malnutrition in these communities. The mean BMI of the boys and girls ranged from 14.77kg/m2 – 16.67 kg/m2 and 14.14kg/m2 – 16.75 kg/m2, respectively. These values were both below the standards. The IOTF classified 94.7% of the children as having various degrees of thinness and only 5.3% with normal BMI. The WHO percentile ranking showed that 11.4% of the children were underweight, 31.4% were at risk of underweight, 1.7% were overweight, 4.4% were at risk of overweight and 51.1% were probably normal. The haemoglobin concentrations of the children showed that 70% of the boys and girls were anaemic (haemoglobin concentration of 7>11gm/dl). Another, 12% of the boys and 16.7% of the girls were severely anaemic (haemoglobin concentration of < 7gm/dl) and about 18% and 13.3% of the boys and girls, respectively were normal. There was a significant positive association between ivermectin intake and nutritional status of the children (P <0.01). The association between haemoglobin level and ivermectin intake was not significant (P>0.05). However, there were more anaemic children among those who did not take ivermectin. Stool microscopy detected presence of intestinal helminth (Hookworm and Ascaris lumbricoides ova) in the faeces of 32.5% of the children. There was a significant association between ivermectin consumption and parasitic load. This confirmed the speculation that ivermectin has a de-worming effect. Factors that affected the nutritional and health status of these children were their food habit, which was found to be very monotonous and mainly based on starchy staples and some other socio-demographic variables. These findings suggest the need for targeted health and nutrition intervention in these communities and also raise the question of appropriate anthropometric standards for the Nigerian population.

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Socio-Economic and Cultural Analyses of Food Security Among Selected Ethnic Groups in North Central Nigeria

Abstract:

The broad objective of the study was to investigate the socio-economic and cultural dimensions of food security among selected ethnic groups in North Central Nigeria. Specifically, the study was designed to: determine food culture and practices of the respondents; determine the household food security status (energy availability) across ethnic groups; determine dietary diversity of the households across cultures; identify perceived constraints militating against household food security; and describe the coping strategies utilized by the households during food shortages. Seven hypotheses and a conceptual framework were developed for the study. The population of the study consists of all ethnic groups in North Central Nigeria. The zone comprises about 60 ethnic groups. Specifically, the study was carried out among Tiv, Igala and Eggon ethnic groups of Benue, Kogi and Nasarawa States. A multi-stage sampling technique was adopted for the study. Three ethnic groups (Tiv, Igala and Eggon) and one village per ethnic group were purposively selected based on differences in language and culture. The total sample size for this study was 340 respondents, made up of 120 Tiv households, 108 Igala households and 112 Eggon households. Data for the study were collected through the use of interview schedule. The data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean score, food security index, factor analysis; the comparative (reduced) coping strategy index (CSI), logit regression, Kruskal-Wallis (H) statistic and correlation. The study revealed that majority (91.2%) of the respondents were males. The mean age of the respondents was 43.36 years while their mean household size was 5 members. The mean farm size of the respondents was 3.3 hectares while their average fertilizer use was 4.73kg/ha per annum. Majority (53.2%) had no formal education; majority (89.4%) had no access to credit and about 53.2% did not participate in non-farm activities. The average output from own production was 6211.79kg and majority (60%) of the respondents possessed goats. The mean farm income; mean non-farm income and average annual household income for the respondents were 69,539.00 naira; 22,486.00 naira and 91,752.00 naira, respectively. Majority (93.2%) of husbands took decisions on household agricultural activities; all respondents practiced subsistence farming; and 94.7% practiced mixed cropping. Majority (88.6%) of the respondents preferred major crops; about 92.5% acquired farmland through inheritance; and the family (67. %) constituted the main source of labour. Majority of the respondents used traditional processing (97.4%) and storage (96.2%) methods. Majority (95.4%) of husbands controlled household income and majority (77.9%) of husbands as well had preference in household food sharing. About 67.5%, 41.7% and 44.6% in Anter, Ikem and Randa, respectively were food secure. In all, slightly above half (51.8%) of the households were food secure. Root and tuber crops (86.2%) constituted the food group most consumed by households. Consequently, the population had a low quality diet. The major constraints to food security in the study area included economic constraints, institutional constraints, poor governance and lack of access to appropriate technologies. The most popular strategies utilized during food stress were relying on less preferred food (93.8%) and limiting portion size at meal times (83.5%). The regression analysis showed that some household socio-economic factors [household size (AE) (t= -7.64; p ≤ 0.05), output from own production (t=2.89; p ≤ 0.05), farm income (t=2.78; p ≤ 0.05) and annual income (t= 2.21; p ≤ 0.05)] significantly influenced household food security status. Regression analysis also showed that some food culture and practices [control over household income (-1.056; p ≤ 0.05) and preference over household food sharing (0.834; p ≤ 0.05)] significantly influenced household food security status. Kruskal-Wallis (H) analysis indicated that there was no significant (x2 statistic=5.9915; p ≤ 0.05) difference in household food security status among the ethnic groups studied. Correlation analysis showed that there was a significant (r = - 0.71; p ≤ 0.05) relationship between food security and coping strategy index. Also, some household socio-economic factors such as household size (AE) (r=0.611; p ≤ 0.05); age (r=0.222; p ≤ 0.05) and annual household income (r= -0.197; p ≤ 0.05) had significant relationship with coping strategy index. The study recommended that to improve the food security situation in North Central Nigeria, multiple cropping found to be dominant in the region should be encouraged. Research and extension should focus on developing and promoting appropriate technologies, including use of inputs that can raise productivity in mixed cropping system. Also, governments should support appropriate food storage, processing and preservation techniques at the household and village levels to ensure food availability throughout the year. In addition, households should be assisted to diversify their income sources and enhance their purchasing power so as to meet their minimum food requirement. Furthermore, extension institutions in the region should organize nutrition education programmes aimed at encouraging farmers to produce and consume varieties of foods for improved nutrition and food security.

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Assessing the Nutritional Status and Selected Indigenous Foods of People in Two Communities in Abia State

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This study assesses the nutritional status and traditional foods of indigenous people in two communities in Abia State. As a result of the high rate of food insecurity within the indigenous people, local food resources required investigation to identify food use. Secondly to develop food based strategies to combat malnutrition. The study also assesses some indigenous foods with a focus on their seasonality and attributes in two communities in Abia State. It determines the food consumption pattern of Igbo people in these two communities. It also studies food preparation and micronutrient rich foods commonly consumed among indigenous people and finally determines the nutritional status of children between 0-12 years using anthropometric measurement in the communities. Two hundred households (one hundred from each community) were randomly selected from lists of households in the communities selected for this purpose of the study. Structured and validated questionnaire developed by the Global Health Research Group from McGill University, Canada was modified to the community setting and was used to collect information on the traditional food list. Information on macronutrient rich foods, the kind and duration of milk fed to the children and the age of introduction of complementary foods were obtained. The result shows that traditional foods have medicinal, nutritional and socio-cultural values. The study also shows that starchy staples are important in the diet of Ohuhu and Ohiya communities in Abia State. They consume the staples in various forms at least once daily. Crayfish, dried and ice fish are main sources of protein and the quantity consume is a function of one's income. Traditional food systems of indigenous people contain a wealth of micronutrient that have been poorly described and reported in scientific literature. This lack of scientific coverage prevents the information from being included in health training programmes. Fifteen percent (15%) of mothers exclusively breastfed their babies for varying lengths of time. Majority of the mothers breastfed for one year, however, some women continued for two years to meet with the WHO standards. The findings from weighed food intake show that traditional foods provide over 80% of calorie, protein, vitamin, thiamin riboflavin, niacin and ascorbic acid for 0-2 years, 3-5 years and 6-12 years. It confirms that indigenous people prefer to consume traditional food to imported foods. About one percent (1%) of 0-2 years old children in Ohuhu were wasted. Two children (0.5%) and six children (3%) were stunted and underweight respectively. Most malnourished children appeared to be normal to their parents until their weight/height and weight-for-age were compared with expected indicators, respectively. It was observed that in Ohiya, 1% of 0-2 years olds were wasted. Two children (0.5%) were stunted and underweight respectively. There is a significant positive relationship between (P <0.05) traditional food and nutritional status of the indigenous people.

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Evaluation of Nutritional Status and Dietary Management of In-Patient Diabetics in University ff Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract:

The study was carried out using randomized 121 in-patient diabetics in medical wards of University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) Ituku-Ozalla. The instrument for data collection was structured, validated pre-tested questionnaires, anthropometry and dietary study. Body mass index was calculated for each patient using weight and height measurements. The adequacy of nutrient intake was assessed by comparing the energy and nutrient intakes of patient with FAO/WHO requirements. The contribution of macronutrients (carbohydrate, protein and fat) to the total daily energy consumption was assessed using American Diabetes Association (ADA). Data collected were coded into the computer. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations were calculated. Mannwhitney’s and Kruskawalli’s tests were used to compare means. Results showed that the subjects were made up of 54.5% males and 45.5% females. The BMI of the females (27.55±6.61kg/m2) was significantly (p<0.05) higher than that of males (24.53±4.64kg/m2). The study also showed that the BMI of patients from rural areas (23.70kg/m2) was significantly (p<0.05) lower than that of the urban (26.81kg/m2) and suburban (26.20kg/m2). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between the waist circumference of males (95.59±10.97cm) and females (88.41±13.24cm). The mean waist/hip ratios for male and female diabetics were 0.96±0.08 and 0.91±0.10 respectively. The overall mean daily intake of energy of both male and female diabetics was 99.32% of the prescribed energy level. The overall daily intake of energy for male diabetics was 75.50% while that of females was 96.06% of FAO/WHO requirement. The mean daily protein intake for males and females were 164.7% and 179.3% of FAO/WHO respectively. The mean daily intake of protein by patients was 77.90g which contributed 15.30% of the total daily energy intake. Carbohydrate was 281.44kg (1125.79kcal), contributing 52.7% of the total daily energy consumed. The mean daily fat intake of patients was 77.23g (695.07kcal), contributing 32.65%. The micronutrient intake of diabetics (male and female combined) was adequate for vitamin A, C, thiamine and calcium. The iron intake of the male diabetics was 156.02% of the FAO/WHO requirement while that of female diabetics was 80.80%. Other micronutrients such as niacin and riboflavin were less than 100% FAO/WHO requirement for both males and females (63.90% and 88.50%) and (39.62% and 52.91%) respectively. The overall dietary intake of the in-patient diabetics was adequate for energy and macronutrients for females, but close to adequate for the male diabetics. Intakes of micronutrient were adequate except for riboflavin and niacin.

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Knowledge, Attitude and Adoption of Appropriate Feeding Practices by Mothers and Anthropometric Indices of Their Children in Aguata Local Government Area Of Anambra State, Nigeria.

Abstract:

This study was designed to assess the knowledge, attitude and adoption of appropriate infant feeding practices of mothers and the anthropometric indices of their children. Three hundred and seventy three mothers who attended infant welfare clinics at the three health settings (General hospital Ekwulobia, Primary health care Ekwulobia, and Primary health care Akpo) all in Aguata L.G.A were involved in the study. The study evaluated the nutritional status of the infants in relation to their anthropometric indices. Also infant feeding practices of mothers in the locality was assessed. A validated semi-structured questionnaire by experts at the Department of Home Science, Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Nigeria, Nsukka was used to elicit information on socio-economic characteristics of the mothers and their children. Results showed that age of the mothers involved in the study ranged from less than 20 years to 41 years and above. The mothers were mostly civil servants (29.50%), traders (29.30%), skilled workers (16.90%), housewives (16.60%) and unskilled workers (9.40%). Household size of 3-4 members dominated (38.90%) of population studied. On the average, 67.74% of the mothers had correct knowledge of infant feeding guidelines which means that mothers were knowledgeable on the infant feeding guidelines. Most mothers (67.60%) received information on breastfeeding through the midwives and nurses where they attended antenatal clinic. A total of (47.70%) of the mothers ever adopted exclusive breastfeeding for different periods of time. A total of (43.40%) stopped breastfeeding their babies after 12 months of age followed by (21.70%) who stopped breastfeeding after 15 months of age of the child. Only 19.30% and 13.90% stopped breastfeeding their babies after 9 months and 6 months of age respectively. Anthropometric indices (length and weight) were used to assess the nutritional status of the children. The boys were taller and heavier than the girls in all age groups except age 19-24 months. A total of 22.62% of males and 21.26% of the females were stunted. About 7.54% of the males and 14.37% of the females were wasted. A total of 12.06% males and 7.4% females were undernourished. There was positive and significant (r = 0.7714: P<0.0001) correlation between age and weight of the children as well as their length and age (r = 0.7937: P<0.0001). Breastfeeding was the predominant infant feeding method among the mothers. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference between the weight and length of children fed breast milk only and those fed breast milk plus formula; breast milk and other foods. There was a significant (P<0.05) difference in the length and weight of males and females, within 0-6 months of age while there was no significant (P>0.05) difference in their weight and body mass index (BMI). For those within 7-12 months of age there was no significant (P>0.05) difference in their length, while there was significant (P<0.05) difference in their weight and BMI.

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An Evaluation and Nutrition Education Intervention for Improved Child Feeding and Care Behaviours of Rural Mothers in Eha-Amufu, Enugu State, Nigeria

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This study evaluated the effectiveness of a nutrition education intervention for improved child feeding and care giving behaviours of rural mothers of poor farm households of Enugu State, Nigeria, using a positive deviant approach. A cross-sectional quantitative and qualitative survey (using an experimental design) was conducted to identify positive deviant mother-child pairs and their uncommon feeding and care practices. A multistage sampling technique was used in the selection of 198 households. Three communities were randomly selected from the seven autonomous communities in Eha-Amufu. Census of the households residing in the 3 randomly selected communities was conducted to identify 66 eligible households (i.e households with young children 6-24 months of age that is not the only child). Focus group discussion (FGD) and structured questionnaire were used to assess the nutrition knowledge, food related beliefs, child care practices and needs of the mothers. Anthropometric measurements (weights and heights) of the infants were obtained using standard procedures. Based on the results of the nutritional assessment, the community with the most malnourished children was identified and selected for intervention. Positive and non-Positive Deviants (PD and NPD) mothers in the community were also identified. Positive deviant inquiry (PDI) was conducted to discover positive successful care practices in poor households to promote adequate feeding and care practices. The food and nutrient intakes of PD and NPD children were assessed using the weighed food intake method. Internationally accepted cut-off values were used to classify positive and non-positive deviant children. FAO/WHO recommended nutrient intakes (RNI) were used to assess the adequacy of the nutrient intake of the children. The PD care practices were used to develop model curriculum. A simple nutrition education intervention package (NEP) based on the curriculum was developed and pre-tested with a pilot group of women in a similar community not chosen for the intervention. The NEP had ten study components. Three intervention groups, using different combinations of teaching methods: Standard care (SC), Standard care/intensive nutrition counseling/education (SC/INC/E) and Standard care/intensive nutrition counseling/education/practical cooking demonstration (SC/INC/E/PCD) were employed. A pre and post evaluation was conducted to evaluate the impact of NEP on NPD mothers’ child care and feeding behaviours. Data obtained were coded and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 17. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation) were used to describe childcare and feeding behaviour of mothers. Student t-test was used to test the differences between pre and post intervention behaviours. Chi square test was used for categorical variables to determine effects of some mother characteristics on childcare and feeding behaviours. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to separate and compare means differences. The result showed a high prevalence of malnutrition among the infants; 32.3% were underweight, 47.1% were stunted, 17.0% were wasted. Clinical signs of undernutrition observed were muscle wasting (13.0%), scanty and discoloured hair (9.1%) and xerosis (5.1%). FGD results revealed several food related beliefs as well as lack of nutrition knowledge in the selecting of appropriate foods for infants, poor concept of exclusive breastfeeding and the belief that poverty is a limiting factor for exclusive breast feeding. Although the intake of energy, calcium, thiamin, riboflavin and ascorbic acid were limited for all the infants, PD children still had significantly (p<0.05) higher intakes of these nutrients than NPD children and all the PD children met their requirements for all other nutrients. NPD infants (6-12months) only met their requirements for vitamin A (101.12%) and thiamin (103.33%). Other distinguishing characteristics of PD mothers and their infants included: higher education, practice of exclusive breast feeding, always emptied their breast during breastfeeding, child accompanying mother to work, deworming of children within the past six months, treated drinking water for their children, and the absence of fever or diarrhea among the infants during the two weeks preceding the interview. There were significant (p<0.05) improvement in the post-test scores in eight (growth monitoring, malnutrition, selection of body building and protective foods, infant nutrition, diarrhea, family planning and feeding during illness) out of the ten components of the NEP among mother in the SC/INC/E/PCD group compared to the improvement in one (family planning) and four (growth monitoring, selection of body building and protective foods, and immunization) components of mothers in the SC and SC/INC/E group, respectively. Infants of mothers belonging to the SC/INC/E/PCD had a significantly higher percentage weight increase (5%) compared to an increase of 2.56% in the SC/INC/E group and a decrease of 4% in the SC group. The changes in height were minimal and with no significant differences among the groups (0.4% for SC, 0.6% for SC/INC/E and 0.8% for SC/INC/E/PCD). Identification and use of positive deviant mothers (as change agents) to teach the non-positive deviants in rural communities for acceptable and sustainable impact is recommended.

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