Understanding early complementary food practice in rural Indonesia: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background Almost all cases of stunting occur in developing countries and could be prevented through exclusive breastfeeding. However, as a result of cultural beliefs, early complementary food practices are widely practiced in Indonesia. This study explored cultural beliefs related to early complementary food practices in rural areas of Indonesia. Methods This ethnographic study involved 16 key and six general participants. Data were collected via focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, observations, and field notes, and then thematically analysed. Results Four themes emerged: reasons for early complementary feeding, the idea of ‘the sooner the better’, types of complementary food and influencing people. Conclusions Using policymakers to provide culturally sensitive and evidence-based health information involving grandmothers and traditional birth attendants may help prevent early complementary feeding and improve exclusive breastfeeding rates.