Study of pattern of foods given to the infants during weaning period in an urban field practice area in Vijayapura.

Abstract

The first 2 years of life are a critical period for a child's growth and development. Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months and continued breastfeeding with safe, appropriate, and adequate feeding are recommended as a global health policy in both developing and developed countries. The objective was to study the pattern of foods given to the infants during the weaning period in an urban field practice area in Vijayapura. The mothers of infants (aged 6-12 months) were interviewed by using predesigned and pretested questionnaires regarding different types of foods given to their infants and also about their immunization status, incidence of diarrhea and acute respiratory infection (ARI). A total of 95 mothers with infants aged between 6 and 12 months were enrolled in the study during the period of 1 month. Majority of the infants were fed with milk (animal) as a type of complementary food. Poor complementary feeding practices were observed in urban areas, and urgent health education and demonstration of weaning foods in the community play a major role in preventing diseases.