INTRODUCTIONNutrition plays a quintessential role with regard to maternal and child health. However, this aspect is inevitably interlinked to perceived notions and beliefs with regard to food to be consumed by pregnant and lactating women. Studies have also shown existence of practices and beliefs like denying pregnant and lactating women of known nutritious food items owing to their traditional food habits. [1][2][3] In India most food practices and traditions have stemmed from deeply rooted traditions and customs. These food practices can be attributed to malnutrition, which in turn is linked to poverty, food insecurity, unhygienic practices and traditional beliefs. 4 Beliefs are crucial in the acceptance, rejection and promotion of certain food items. These beliefs are the products of social interactions and faith which are entrenched in the minds of the community. Many of these food practices arise from the ignorance about the nutritive value of food. Most often certain cultural beliefs and practices concerning food items are due to ignorance. ABSTRACTBackground: Poor maternal nutrition adversely affects pregnancy and birth outcomes, particularly vulnerable are the rural women in a rural setting. A lactating mother"s nutritional requirement should meet needs of self and that of an infant. In most rural communities this situation is further complicated by food taboos, consequently either adding to or leading to additional negative balance of nutrients. Aims: To assess the food practices and beliefs during pregnancy and lactation among women residing in a rural area of Bangalore urban district. Methods: Study was conducted during the period of January to March 2014 among the women residing under the Sarjapur PHC, Bangalore. Data was collected using Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and in Depth Interviews (IDIs). Thematic frame work approach was used for data analysis. Results: A total of four FGDs and twelve IDIs were conducted. Good practices included consuming green leafy vegetables, rice, bread, jowar, meat, egg and fruits like apple and mosambi. The practices which may potentially harm the health included avoidance of food items like ragi, papaya, mango and guava during pregnancy and reduced water consumption during the post natal period. Beliefs like "casting an evil eye" or "colour of the baby" had an influence on the food given to antenatal mother. Conclusions: The study found numerous food items which are nutritious and safe and available locally either restricted or denied thus making women (pregnant and lactating) and infants vulnerable. There is need for health education programs in rural areas regarding nutrition which will in turn improve the maternal and child health.

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