EFFECT OF NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND PROTEIN INTAKE ON LEVELS OF SERUM ALBUMIN IN PREGNANT WOMEN IN SELUMA DISTRICT

Rostika Flora1, Mohammad Zulkarnain2, Hamzah Hasyim3, Nurmalia Ermi4, Annisah Biancika Jasmine5, Risnawati Tanjung6, Sri Martini7, Aguscik7, Ikhsan8, Nurlaili8, Samwilson Slamet8, Yetti Purnama8 and Neshy Sulung8

Abstract

The mother’s nutritional status during pregnancy affects newborn’s health. Inadequate dietary intake affects several biomarkers that may influence fetal growth. This study aimed to examine the relationship between nutritional status and levels of serum albumin in pregnant women residing in the Seluma Regency. This cross-sectional study included 130 pregnant women in their second and third trimesters. Sample characteristics were obtained using a questionnaire, and nutritional status data were obtained by measuring the circumference of the upper arm and grouping the nutritional status into chronic energy deficiency (CED) and non-CED, protein intake was measured using the 3x24 hour food recall method then grouped into low intake and adequate intake. Measurement of serum albumin levels was carried out using the colorimetric method. All data were analyzed with an independent t-test. Based on the measurement of nutritional status, it was found that 27.7% of pregnant women experienced CED and 85.4% of pregnant women have low protein intake. The result showed that the average albumin serum level in pregnant women with CED was lower than in pregnant women without CED (31.217 ± 5.98 g/dl vs 34.189 ± 3.97 g/dl, p=0.002). In summary, nutritional status affects levels of albumin serum in pregnant women in the Seluma Region. Monitoring nutritional status and protein intake during pregnancy is essential for determine the health of the mother and baby during pregnancy.