Factors Affecting Healthy Eating in Pregnancy among Women attending Antenatal Care in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State

This study investigated the factors affecting healthy eating during pregnancy among women attending antenatal care (ANC) at selected Basic Health Centres in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. The specific objectives were to determine the level of knowledge pregnant women possess regarding dietary practices, assess the factors influencing healthy eating during pregnancy, and evaluate their awareness of appropriate nutritional habits. A descriptive research design was employed, with a purposive sampling technique used to select 133 pregnant women who met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected using a self-structured questionnaire, validated by professionals, and analysed using SPSS version 25 with descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that none of the participants exhibited poor knowledge of healthy eating during pregnancy. A majority (58.6%) had an average level of knowledge, while 41.4% demonstrated good knowledge. The respondents largely rejected common nutritional myths, such as beliefs that eating eggs leads to theft by the unborn child or that consuming soil provides energy. Cultural beliefs and perceptions of cost were moderate barriers to healthy eating. Additionally, the women demonstrated substantial awareness of healthy dietary practices, such as the importance of consuming fruits and vegetables, avoiding carbonated drinks, and exercising during pregnancy. The study concludes that while knowledge of healthy eating was generally positive, cultural misconceptions and economic considerations still influence dietary behaviours. Continuous education during ANC visits is recommended to improve nutritional practices among pregnant women.