| dc.description.abstract | The study on utilization and nutritional quality of Amakamo (cultured milk) was conducted with the aim of evaluating the utilization patterns and nutritional composition of Amakamo commonly consumed in western Uganda. The three objectives that guided the study were: (i) determining the knowledge, attitudes and practices of women of reproductive age with regards to Amakamo consumption, (ii) determining the nutritional composition of Amakamo, and (iii) determining the prevalence of overweight and obesity in women of reproductive age. The study employed a cross sectional survey in which 165 women aged 18-45 years in Sanga town council, Kiruhura district were interviewed. Samples (n = 10) of Amakamo were randomly picked from different households for analysis. Most respondents (80%) believed that it is possible for a woman not consuming Amakamo or any milk to be healthy. Others believed that over consumptions of Amakamo can lead to many health complications such as complicated labor, diabetes, large infant/baby, hypertension and obesity. Amakamo contains 86.79% moisture, 4.8% protein, 3.25% carbohydrate, 2% fat, 1% ash and 48.29 Kcal. It also has a pH = 4.47 and a titratable acidity of 1%. About a half (49.7%) of the respondents consumed between 500 – 1000 ml of Amakamo daily. The study also indicated that 55.2% and 33.9% of women in the target population were overweight and obese, respectively with an average BMI of 28.5 kg/m2. The respondents had an average waist: hip ratio of 0.87 with 74.5% being at risk of NCDS. In general, respondents had a negative nutritional attitude and mixed behaviors when it came to nutritional practices. The health risks attributed to over consumption of Amakamo is endemic. However it has not been put into consideration when recommending such a food product. This would put to be brides and women of reproductive age at risk of overweight, obesity and NCDS. Given the fact that there is high consumption of Amakamo, coupled with minimal exercise, the associated risks are more likely. High cultural activities requiring one to consume Amakamo, as a cultural and family requirement in the community further propagates the risk. | en_US |
