Abstract:
Introduction: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is
recommended up to six months of age and is
usually estimated by the 24-recall method which
actually overestimates the real rate. EBF rate in Sri
Lanka up to 4 months of age is 75% and up to 6
months of age is 51% according to data of the Sri
Lanka Demographic & Health Survey 2006/07.
Deuterium oxide dose-to-mother technique could
be utilised for assessment of intake by babies of
breastmilk as well as intake of water from sources
other than breastmilk.
Objective: To determine the actual EBF rates at 3
and 6 months of age of infants in Sri Lanka using
deuterium oxide dose-to-mother technique.
Method: Thirty healthy mother-infant dyads were
followed up for a six month period from birth and
breast milk intake was measured at 3 and 6 months
using deuterium isotope analysis. Further, an
interviewer administered questionnaire asked about
the feeding history.
