ASSESSMENT OF DIFFERENCES IN VITAMIN C INTAKE BEFORE AND DURING RAMADAN AMONG GENERAL POPULATION IN KARACHI

BACKGROUND Inconsistent data revealed on investigation of nutrient intake by different populations of Muslims during Ramadan, particularly due to the variations in dietary norms. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this observational study was to find out the difference of Vitamin C intake before and during Ramadan within different age groups and genders. METHODS A prospective study was conducted to investigate Vitamin C intake of subjects on two occasions: before and during Ramadan. A total of 770 voluntary subjects (12–90 yrs.) were enrolled for the research. Informed consent form was obtained from each of the participant before the commencement of the study. A quantitative questionnaire cum interview method was used to collect demographic data, health characteristics and dietary intake data. Dietary data was collected using a 24 hour dietary recall and Generic Food Photograph Atlas (GFP) while food items were recorded in codes. Standardized Recipes were used to assess the amount of Vitamin C in each food consumed. Vitamin C intake was calculated with the help of the United States Department of Agriculture Food Composition Table (USDA FCT) and Allama Iqbal Open University Food Composition Table (AIOU FCT). Analysis was conducted using Paired-T-Test and MANOVA using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Software, Version 16. RESULTS A significant increase was observed in the overall intake of Vitamin C in the diet of participants during Ramadan (195.5% of before Ramadan intake). Moreover, the results indicated that Vitamin C consumption was increased among both males and females (P = <0.05) and among heterogeneous aged subjects during Ramadan (P = <0.05). CONCLUSION Additional research is warranted to further elucidate the increased intake of Vitamin C with regards of cultural differences.