Dietary energy intake, energy expenditure and activity pattern among selected rural and urban poor in Bangladesh.

Rural-urban and seasonal differences in energy balance were studied among selected free living subjects, chosen from the poor population groups in Bangladesh. Individual dietary energy intakes were estimated by a combination of 24 hours recall and weighing method. Time allocation to various occupational and non-occupational activities were recorded by observation and questioning, and energy expenditures were calculated by using FAO/WHO/UNU guidelines. The male working adults in both the population groups studied were found to be in negative energy balance in both the seasons observed. In Jan-Feb when employment opportunities for the rural poor were few all age and sex groups were in negative energy balance, and when employment opportunities improved during May-June the situation reversed except for the male working adults. In urban areas, on the other hand, all age and sex groups, except the male working adults were in positive energy balance in both the seasons. Rural children under 10 years, had significantly higher energy expenditure (P < 0.023) than their urban counterparts. Seasonal difference in energy expenditure among the rural male adults is quite high. In the urban group there was no such seasonal difference. Apparently very high rural-urban difference in energy expenditure of the male adults (18-30 y) in season 1 may be attributed to very high energy demanding activities in which the observed subjects in rural areas were engaged during this season. Compared to their urban counterparts rural male adults (18-30 yrs.) were found to be devoted significantly higher time in occupational and heavy household activities.