ASSESSMENT OF DIFFERENCES IN VITAMIN C INTAKE BEFORE AND DURING RAMADAN AMONG GENERAL POPULATION IN KARACHI

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Inconsistent data revealed on investigation of nutrient intake by
different populations of Muslims during Ramadan, particularly due
to the variations in dietary norms.
OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this observational study was to find out the difference
of Vitamin C intake before and during Ramadan within different
age groups and genders.
METHODS
A prospective study was conducted to investigate Vitamin C intake
of subjects on two occasions: before and during Ramadan. A total
of 770 voluntary subjects (12–90 yrs.) were enrolled for the research.
Informed consent form was obtained from each of the participant
before the commencement of the study. A quantitative questionnaire
cum interview method was used to collect demographic
data, health characteristics and dietary intake data. Dietary data
was collected using a 24 hour dietary recall and Generic Food
Photograph Atlas (GFP) while food items were recorded in codes.
Standardized Recipes were used to assess the amount of Vitamin C
in each food consumed. Vitamin C intake was calculated with the
help of the United States Department of Agriculture Food Composition
Table (USDA FCT) and Allama Iqbal Open University Food Composition
Table (AIOU FCT). Analysis was conducted using
Paired-T-Test and MANOVA using Statistical Package for Social
Sciences (SPSS) Software, Version 16.
RESULTS
A significant increase was observed in the overall intake of Vitamin
C in the diet of participants during Ramadan (195.5% of before
Ramadan intake). Moreover, the results indicated that Vitamin C
consumption was increased among both males and females (P =
<0.05) and among heterogeneous aged subjects during Ramadan
(P = <0.05).
CONCLUSION
Additional research is warranted to further elucidate the increased
intake of Vitamin C with regards of cultural differences.

KEYWORDS
Vitamin C, Before Ramadan, Intake, Generic Food Photograph
Atlas, During Ramadan, Karachi