Influence of Socio-Cultural Factors on Dietary Practices During Pregnancy Among Igbo Women in Enugu State

This study empirically analyses the influence of socio-cultural factors on dietary practices during pregnancy among Igbo women in Enugu State, South East Nigeria. Cultural food taboos, gender norms, and traditional beliefs regarding pregnancy significantly shape maternal dietary behaviour and nutritional outcomes in Igbo communities, yet their empirical documentation remains limited. The study employs a mixed-methods cross-sectional design, targeting 300 postpartum Igbo women in Nkanu East and Igbo Eze South local government areas. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and 24-hour dietary recall. Objectives include cataloguing prevalent cultural food taboos during pregnancy, quantifying their effect on dietary diversity scores, and identifying protective cultural factors that support adequate maternal nutrition. Analytical methods include multiple regression, thematic analysis, and dietary diversity scoring. The Bio-Cultural Model of Nutrition anchors the study. Recent literature from South East Nigeria documents that restrictions on protein-rich foods including bush meat, snail, and certain fish species significantly reduce dietary adequacy among pregnant Igbo women. Findings are expected to provide actionable evidence for culturally sensitive antenatal nutrition counselling. Recommendations address the Enugu State Ministry of Health, community leaders, and Home Economics educators to develop culturally tailored maternal nutrition education. Keywords: socio-cultural factors, dietary practices, pregnancy, Igbo women, Enugu State.