ASSESSMENT OF DIETARY PATTERN AND FOOD FREQUENCY OF ORPHANAGE CHILDREN IN OGBOMOSO, OYO STATE

ABSTRACT Orphanage children are vulnerable to malnutrition due to inadequate access to diverse and nutrient-rich foods. Dietary pattern and food frequency assessments are crucial for identifying gaps and informing interventions. The main objective of the research work tailored towards evaluating the dietary pattern and food frequency assessment of orphanage children in Ogbomoso, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted in selected orphanages in Ogbomoso. A total of 102 children (aged 5-17) were randomly sampled. The Dietary pattern and food frequency was assessed using structured questionnaire. The study revealed that, most participants eat thrice a day with 73.53%, 99.02% occasionally eat fast foods, 91% eat snacks between meals daily. A good percentage doesn’t skip meals and 97.06% have access to variety of foods with ensure dietary diversity. Majority of the orphanage children had good vitamins and minerals intake including sodium, potassium and calcium intake. Significantly, orphanage children in Ogbomoso face significant nutritional challenges. This study highlights the need for targeted nutrition interventions in Ogbomoso orphanages homes, improving dietary diversity and nutritional status will enhance the overall well-being and development of vulnerable orphanage children. Also, interventions should deeply focus on improving access to diverse foods, capacity building for caregivers, and promoting optimal feeding practices.