Abstract
Background and Objectives:The period of transition from breastfeeding to other foods and liquids, is a very vulnerable period when malnutrition is likely to start in many infants and young children, if appropriate feeding practices are not employed. This study assessed using composite indices, the appropriateness of complementary feeding practices and associated factors among nursing mothers in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.Methods:This descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in selected primary health facilities in Ijebu-Ode. Multi stage sampling technique was employed to select 283 mother-child pairs. Data was collected using a pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire which included the World Health Organization Infant and Young Child Feeding Indicators (WHO IYCF) and the Infant and Child Feeding Index (ICFI).Results:Of the total 283 mother-child pairs studied, 33.6% met minimum meal frequency, 14.5% received minimum dietary diversity (≥4 food groups) and 9.2% received minimum acceptable diet when assessed using the WHO IYCF indicators. Overall, appropriate complementary feeding was low (4.2%) and associated (p<0.05) with factors such as antenatal care visits, child welfare clinic attendance and mother’s workplace. On the other hand, the ICFI categorized respondents into low (11.7%), medium (24.7%) and high (63.6%) ICFI scores and were associated (p<0.05) with mother’s education and household size.Conclusion and Global Health Implications:This study revealed a high prevalence of inappropriate complementary feeding practices. The use of composite indices reflected these practices and their associated factors holistically as they revealed different dimensions of complementary feeding. This may be useful for monitoring, evaluation, research and the required advocacy for complementary feeding.
Highlights
Background and ObjectivesThe period of transition from breastfeeding to other foods and liquids, is a very vulnerable period when malnutrition is likely to start in many infants and young children, if appropriate feeding practices are not employed.This study assessed using composite indices, the appropriateness of complementary feeding practices and associated factors among nursing mothers in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State
Inappropriate complementary feeding practices have been identified as a determinant of diarrhea, malnutrition outcomes and under-five mortality.[3]
The prevalence of appropriate Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices in Nigeria among breastfed and non-breastfed children aged 6–23 months has dropped from 30% in 20086 to 10% in 20135 and in 2018, only 11% of children age 6-23 months were fed in accordance with the criteria for a minimum acceptable diet.[7]
Summary
The period of transition from breastfeeding to other foods and liquids, is a very vulnerable period when malnutrition is likely to start in many infants and young children, if appropriate feeding practices are not employed.This study assessed using composite indices, the appropriateness of complementary feeding practices and associated factors among nursing mothers in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. Complementary feeding involves the introduction of appropriate and safe foods to children aged 6 months and older, in order to enable infants and young children meet evolving nutritional requirements necessary for optimal growth,development and good health.[1] It is a vulnerable period in the lives of children as it represents the peak period for growth faltering, deficiency of certain micronutrients and high prevalence of some childhood illnesses like diarrhea and respiratory infections.[2]. The prevalence of appropriate Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices in Nigeria among breastfed and non-breastfed children aged 6–23 months has dropped from 30% in 20086 to 10% in 20135 and in 2018, only 11% of children age 6-23 months were fed in accordance with the criteria for a minimum acceptable diet.[7]
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