Complementary feeding practices of caregivers of infants with Down syndrome as compared to caregivers of typically developing infants

Abstract

Caregiver feeding practices during the complementary feeding period (6 months–2 years) may be particularly important for infants with Down syndrome (DS) as they are at higher risk for later health conditions (e.g., obesity, diabetes) that can be influenced by early feeding practices. However, how well caregivers of infants with DS are meeting infant feeding evidence-based practices is relatively unknown. Caregivers of infants with DS (N = 75) and caregivers of typically developing (TD) infants (N = 66) aged 0–2 years completed an online survey about their infant feeding practices and information sources. Caregiver practices and information sources were statistically compared between groups. Results indicated that there are significant differences in the feeding practices of caregivers of infants with DS when compared to caregivers of TD infants. Caregivers of infants with DS were less likely to meet infant feeding evidence-based practices than caregivers of TD infants. Caregivers of infants with DS were also more concerned about their infant's food intake and later weight status. Some individual feeding practices also significantly differed between groups, with caregivers of infants with DS more likely to meet evidence-based practices of purchasing iron rich foods and avoiding added salt, but less likely to use responsive feeding practices than caregivers of TD infants. Caregivers of infants with DS were also less likely to receive information about how to navigate the complementary feeding period than caregivers of TD infants. Coupled with existing research, the results of the present study suggest that infant feeding evidence-based practices should be reviewed for their appropriateness for this population and additional support for caregivers of infants with DS should be implemented to help them navigate this important period.