Do Older Women of Reproductive Age Have Better Diet Quality than Younger Women of Reproductive Age?

Abstract

There is increasing recognition of the importance of nutrition for reproductive health, but little is known regarding the diet quality of younger vs. older reproductive aged women, and how their intakes relate to dietary recommendations. The purpose of the study was to examine the diets of younger (19-35 years old) compared to older (35-50 years old) reproductive aged women, and how they align with dietary recommendations. Women aged 19-50 years from the 2011-13 Australian National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey were included (n = 2323). Dietary intakes were assessed by a single 24-h dietary recall and were compared to (i) Australian Dietary Guidelines; (ii) Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution for protein, carbohydrates, and fat; and (iii) Dietary Guideline Index (DGI). Regression analyses comparing younger and older women against recommendations were undertaken, with confounders determined a priori. There was no difference between older and younger women in meeting food group recommendations, with 26% of all women meeting recommendations for fruit, and meat and alternatives, and <20% meeting recommendations for vegetables and alternatives, grains, and dairy. Although there was no difference between older and younger women in total DGI score (mean (SE) 75.6 (1.7) vs. 74.5 (2.5), p > 0.05), older women had higher component scores in limiting saturated fat, consuming low-fat milk, and limiting adding salt during cooking. Continued health promotion for women of reproductive age should be a key priority to improve their own health and that of future generations.

Keywords: Australia; dietary guideline index; dietary guidelines; dietary intake; nutrients; nutrition survey; reproductive age; women.

Figure 1

Adherence to food group recommendations in all reproductive age women (n = 2323). Australian Guide to Healthy Eating recommendations for vegetables & alternatives (≥5 servings), fruits (≥2 servings), grains (≥6 servings), meat and alternatives (≥2.5 servings), and dairy (≥2.5 servings).

Figure 2

Percentage of daily energy from macronutrients in all reproductive age women (n = 2323). Acceptable macronutrient distribution range (AMDR) for carbohydrate (45–65%), protein (15–25%) and fat (20–35%).