Physical activity, time use, and food intakes of rural households in Ghana, India, and Nepal 2017-2018

This research developed a methodological protocol that allows the triangulation of accelerometer data with time use and food intakes in rural settings of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Household and individual surveys were administrated to 120 individuals in rural Ghana (Upper West Region), India (Telangana State) and Nepal (Province #3). The data collection spanned from June 2017 to November 2018 and participants were invited to wear a medical-graded accelerometer device (ActiGraph GT3X+) throughout the day for four full non-consecutive weeks across an agricultural season. Raw accelerometer data has been archived at one-second interval. Daily individual questionnaires collected information on time use and food intake. Datasets can be used as stand-alone, yet richer analysis can be done linking the various sources of information. Such set of data opens potential new avenues to accurately measure energy expenditure in rural livelihood, thereby complementing an important part of human health and nutrition research in LMICs.<p>This research aimed at developing methods and protocols for generating reliable human energy expenditure profiles that can be used in a variety of agricultural settings in developing countries. The research was carried out in Ghana, India, and Nepal and it developed a protocol in which respondents’ physical activity data (accelerometry data) can be integrated with time use and food intake data. The data and methodology developed through this research provide insights into (1) the energy expenditure and time allocation dimension of agricultural practices and innovations and (2) the gender-differentiated intra-household labour and time allocation associated with these practices and innovations. Such insights are critical for the design of nutritionally-sensitive agricultural interventions.</p>