Nutrient adequacy of vegetarian and non-vegetarian postmenopausal women in Ludhiana city of Punjab

Sixty postmenopausal women (30 vegetarians and 30 nonvegetarians) in the age group of 50–60 years, clinically healthy from the various localities/strata were selected. Background information, food and nutrient intake and anthropometric measurements of the subjects were recorded using an interview schedule. The dietary pattern of both vegetarians and non vegetarians were found to be rich due to high intake of milk and milk products, fats and sugar. Further, the diet of vegetarians contained significantly higher amount of carbohydrates, fibre, thiamine and ascorbic acid but lesser amount of protein, essential fatty acid, vitamin A, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B₁₂, iron and calcium. Per cent contribution of energy by carbohydrates was higher and lower by protein and fat in vegetarians as compared to nonvegetarians. The body weight of vegetarian and nonvegetarian postmenopausal women were found to be higher leading the value of Body Mass Index (BMI) above the normal range of 18.5–25. Vegetarians were also reported to have significantly lower Triceps skin fold thickness (TSFT), 12.97 vs 14.37 mm, Mid upper arm circumference (MUAC), 29.47 vs 33.07 cm and per cent body fat (38.72 vs 41.89%).