Assessment of Knowledge and Consumption Patterns of Soybean, Moringa Oleifera, Aloe Vera and Other Agro-Resources: The Case of the Elderly and Pregnant/Nursing Women in Lome, Togo

Abstract

Purpose: To assess how soybean products and other agro-resources are known and consumed by some vulnerable populations in Lome (Togo). Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted from March to April 2015 among people aged 50 years and over attending two Pension Fund departments and pregnant and nursing women attending Bè Hospital in Lome. Data were collected using a pre-tested face-to-face questionnaire. Participants were surveyed about their knowledge and consumption habits of soybean, Moringa oleifera, Aloe vera products and other agro-resources. Results: A total of 847 respondents were included in the study with 426 pregnant/nursing women and 421 people aged 50 years and over. The majority of respondents were married (39.5%) and 45.3% of the elderly people were widowed. At least nine over ten respondents (96%) knew soybean products and 76.8% of them reported a lifetime consumption of soybean products. The available and most consumed agro-resources included tofu (82.7%), moringa leaves (87.2%) and soy flour (29.7%). The least consumed products were soymilk, soy yogurt and moringa juice. Respondents also reported using moringa tea and soap, as well as Aloe vera juice and toothpaste. Conclusion: Soybean products and other agricultural resources are well known and consumed by people living in Lome. Data on actual food intake is useful to public health professionals and food safety risk assessors. It is important to inform the public at large of the recognized benefits of some foods that will provide solutions to their health problems.

Fresh Moringa Stenopetala leaves consumption and its determinants among pregnant women in southern Ethiopia

“…The intake rate of fresh MS leaves among pregnant women was 49.60%. This is higher than previous studies in adults in central Ethiopia and Africa ( 39 , 42 ), but lower than studies in Mauritius, Togo, and India ( 39 , 40 , 44 ). A possible explanation for this difference is probably the difference in culture, food habits, and awareness of the study participants.…”

“…Studies on consumption of MS species showed that it was widespread practice: 63% in India ( 39 ), 81% in Africa ( 39 ), 87.2% in Togo ( 40 ),and 90% in South Africa ( 41 ) but it has been underutilized (36%) in East Shoa Zones of Oromia,Ethiopia ( 42 ). Age, education level, marital status, occupation, household wealth status, awareness level, knowledge of plant biology, gender, and family size ( 43 , 44 ) were factors associated with MS species consumption in the general population.…”

Food Suplements During Pregnancy Benefits and Risks: A Literature Review

“…Fetal growth and development also depend on other essential nutrients, like vitamins. Many studies have shown that the deficiency of micronutrients such as magnesium, zinc and iron is associated with abnormal fetal development and risk of miscarriage ( Mensah et al 2018 ). However, the importance of vitamin deficiency has been somewhat overlooked as well as the importance of the antioxidant status of the mother and the fetus.…”