COMPLEMENTARY FEEDING PRACTICES AND THE IMPACT ON GROWTH INDICATORS IN BABIES OF SECOND HALF OF INFANCY

Abstract

Objective: Methods: Results: Bandara T*, Hettiarachchi M, Liyanage C and Amarasena S canjee, rice paste, dhal, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ruhuna, SriLanka Improper feeding practices have a lasting impact on the development and health of infants. Complementary feeding indicators have not reached the expected levels in Sri Lanka and its improvement is partly constrained by lack of data. To ascertain the current complementary feeding practices and its impact on growth indicators among 6-12 monthsold infants. Data on complementary feeding practices were obtained through an interviewer-administered questionnaire from mothers (n=450) attending well-baby clinics in randomly selected Public Health Midwifery areas in Galle district. Until 6 months of age exclusive breast feeding rate was 48.5% whereas, 41.0% of the babieswere givenwater before six months. Rice sprat, fish, carrot, pumpkin and eggs were the food of choice for complementary f e e d i n g . I n t h e p r e p a r a t i o n o f complementary foods sugar and salt were added in 42.7% and 58.1% of subjects respectively and oil in 84.2%. Over 70.0% mothers reported feeding with dairy products while 41.0% with infant cereal products, 40% chocolates, 31% plain tea, 22% with ice cream and 7% Tipi Tip. Bottle feeding rate was 61.5% and iron or vitamin supplement rate was 16.0%. The age specific body weight and height was not achieved by 32.7% and 30.5% of infants respectively Reaching of themotor milestones age specifically in the study group was also studied. Common illnesses one month prior to the interview were diarrhea (10%), vomiting (6.5%), allergies (4.9%), skin rashes (10.5%) and mouth rashes (3.3%) respectively. Infants with severe infective diseases, congenital anomalies and chronic diseases were excluded from the study at the subject recruitment in order to avoid confounders. Satisfactory knowledge on basic nutrients was seen among 30.8% of mothers and moderate in 36.0%.