Infant Feeding Practices and Challenges: A Pilot‐Study in Lebanon

Abstract

The improvement of infant feeding practices has been reported as an effective preventive strategy for reducing the burden of Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs). While high rates of NCDs are reported from Lebanon, little is known on child feeding practices in the country. This paper is based on a pilot‐study investigating feeding practices and nutritional status among 0–2 years old children, in one of the main rural areas of Lebanon (Beqaa). Subjects (n=150) were recruited from selected villages by cluster random sampling. Data on feeding practices, anthropometric measurements and 24‐hour dietary recalls were collected. Stunting, underweight and wasting were identified in 16.8, 9.1 and 4.1% of children, respectively; overweight and obesity were documented in 11.5 and 2.7%, respectively. Less than 10% of infants were exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months, with 52.6% being introduced to complementary foods at less than 4 months of age. Approximately, 45% of subjects did not meet the WHO indicators for Minimum Dietary Diversity and Minimal Acceptable Diet. Inadequate nutrient intakes were noted, particularly for iron, calcium, vitamin D and folate. Findings highlight the need for nationwide investigations of feeding practices and child nutritional status in Lebanon. Evidence‐based interventions can then be spearheaded to enhance early childhood nutrition, thus potentially reducing the burden of NCDs.