ASSESSMENT OF NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND LIFESTYLE OF RURAL FARMING HOUSEHOLD IN BAUCHI LOCAL GOVERNMENT

ABSTRACT Nutrition and lifestyle practice play a critical role in determining the health and productivity of rural farming household in Bauchi who form a backbone of agricultural production in many developing economies. Despite there involvement in production, rural farmers often experience poor nutritional outcomes due to economic constraint, limited dietary diversity and unhealthy lifestyle practics. This study assessed the nutritional status and lifestyle of rural farming households in Bauchi Local Government Area, employing a cross-sectional survey of 370 respondents. A well structured questionnaire has been used to collect socio-demographic data, record anthropometric indices, assess nutritional status, as well as to evaluate dietary intake and patterns. Anthropometric measurements (height, weight, BMI) was also measured to assess nutritional status. Data were collected using a well-structured questionnaire, stadiometer, and a weighing scale. The questionnaire has been divided into four (4) sections; A, B, C and D. The data collected were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software to compute frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation (descriptive statistics) to provide an overview of the nutritional status and dietary patterns for each group. The research examined socio-economic, demographic, and dietary factors influencing nutrition and health outcomes among farming families. Findings revealed that most respondents were within the active age group of 26 years and above, with a nearly balanced gender distribution (51% males, 49% females). Educational attainment was moderate, as 42% had secondary education, 23% tertiary, and 16% no formal education. Low income levels were prevalent—41% earned between ₦10,000–₦30,000 monthly—indicating widespread economic vulnerability. Dietary assessment showed that while 42% consumed three meals daily, 33% ate only one meal per day, reflecting food insufficiency and possible undernutrition. Fruit and vegetable consumption was regular among 51%, but 49% reported irregular intake, suggesting limited dietary diversity. Similarly, only 33% consumed animal protein daily, while 27% rarely or never did, pointing to economic and accessibility barriers. Health assessment revealed that 51% of respondents experienced unexplained weight loss or fatigue, and 24% reported nutrition-related conditions such as anemia and stunted growth. Despite high physical activity levels due to labor-intensive farming, only 18% attended regular health or nutrition check-ups. The study concludes that while rural farming households in Bauchi remain highly productive and physically active, their nutritional status is undermined by low income, limited dietary diversity, and inadequate health-seeking behavior. It recommends targeted nutrition education, improved access to affordable diverse foods, and integration of nutrition and health services into rural development programs to enhance the well-being and productivity of farming communities. The research recommends that Government agencies, NGOs, and community health workers should intensify awareness campaigns on balanced diets, food preparation, and nutrition-sensitive agriculture. Farmers should be encouraged and supported to diversify crops beyond staples to include legumes, fruits, vegetables, and small livestock, which can improve dietary quality.