Energy Expenditure Of Market Women In Five Major Markets In Owerri Town, Imo State Nigeria

ABSTRACT

A cross sectional study was conducted in five major markets in Owerri metropolis, Imo State, Nigeria to determine the energy expenditure of 300 market women aged 18 - 50years. Energy expenditure was determined by factorial method, food intake using 24 hour dietary recall for three consecutive days together with food frequency questionnaire. Body composition was by anthropometry as well as socio-economic status. The study also attempted to classify the degree of obesity among the respondents. The result showed that the women exceeded the standard weight by 8 1.53%, but failed to meet the recommended height standards. Of the total number of women, only 11.6% were grouped under normal, while more than 80% of the women were found to be obese using Body Mass Index (BMI) reference standards. Energy expenditure and intake value revealed that the women met and exceeded their energy requirements. Findings further showed that the women lived sedentary lifestyle; the nature of their business did not give them time for physical exercise.