Background
A food considered as a taboo is strictly forbidden, for health, cultural or spiritual reasons. Food taboos are known from virtually all human societies and may be found in various forms all over the world. Pregnancy is viewed as a critical period in the life of women and is usually subjected to a number of food taboos as a way of safeguarding their lives and that of the unborn baby in Yilo Krobo, district Ghana. The study qualitatively assessed the presence of food taboos and related practices during pregnancy in the Yilo Krobo District, Ghana. Various motivating factors and enforcement mechanisms were also documented.
Methodology
An exploratory cross sectional study using qualitative method was employed to determine the presence and extent of food taboo and beliefs and factors contributing to the adherence to these practices during pregnancy in Yilo Krobo District, Ghana. A total of sixteen focus group discussions (FGDs) were held in six communities in the Yilo Krobo District with a total of 155 respondents which comprised of 46 pregnant women, 30 elderly women, 42elderly men, and 17 women in fertility age. Respondents were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Analysis was done manually using the principle of systemic text condensation as described by Malterud (1993).
Results
The study revealed that all the participants were aware of the existence of food prohibitions and beliefs for pregnant women in Yilo Krobo district. The study identified snails, rats, hot food and animal lungs as foods prohibited during pregnancy, although snails and rats are also forbidden to eat outside pregnancy. Concern for healthy pregnancy, good outcome, and respect for the ancestors, parents and community elders were identified as the key reasons for adherence to food ivtaboo and traditional beliefs in pregnancy. On adherence to food taboo and traditional beliefs, the study revealed that food taboos and traditional beliefs are widely practice or adhered in the Yilo Krobo district. Finally, food taboo and traditional practice in Yilo Krobo are essentially enforced by constant reminder by parents, husband of the pregnant women, peers, community leaders and fear of sanction.
Conclusion
The study revealed that food taboos and traditional beliefs relating to pregnancy exist in Yilo Krobo district. Snails, rats, snakes, hot food and animal lungs are the food types prohibited to eat during pregnancy. Health concern is the core reasons for adherence.