Analysis of the Nutritional Intake of Breastfeeding Mothers in Côte d'Ivoire: Challenges and Perspectives for Maternal and Child Health

A balanced diet during breastfeeding is essential to meet the increased needs of lactating mothers and to ensure high-quality breast milk. However, such a diet is often inadequate and insufficient. This study aims to assess the nutritional intake of breastfeeding women in Côte d’Ivoire and its implications for maternal and child health. A survey was conducted among 300 breastfeeding mothers in health centers located in Abobo, Cocody, Port-Bouët, Dabou, and Bonoua. Nutritional needs were calculated using the Müller equation, and intakes were estimated through biochemical food analysis and the Nutrisurvey 2007 software. Results showed that mothers had an average energy intake of 2157.97 kcal/day, significantly below the estimated requirement of 3629.43 kcal/day. On average, intakes covered 63.27% of lipid needs, 30.81% of protein needs, and 61.35% of carbohydrate needs. Three-quarters of the mothers had insufficient intake of energy and macronutrients. Significant deficits were observed in polyunsaturated fatty acids (9.36 g vs. 17.97 g) and fiber (20.1 g vs. 25 g). Calcium and zinc intakes were inadequate for all mothers. Only 5 to 10% of women aged 16 to 34 met the recommended intakes for potassium and iron. Conversely, phosphorus was consumed in excess by 80% of participants. Deficiencies in vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B9, C, and E were observed in 75 to 90% of the participants. These results reveal widespread nutritional insufficiency among breastfeeding women in the studied population.