Assessment of the Dietary Pattern of Mothers on the Nutritional Status of their Under Five Children in Ilorin Metropolis

Malnutrition is a significant contributor to child mortality and morbidity in Nigeria, with poor dietary practices of mothers of under five children being a critical indicator of their nutritional outcomes and health status. This paper reviews studies on the influence of dietary practices on the nutritional status of children in Ilorin Metropolis, Nigeria. The studies were sourced from various electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Sci-space, and Consensus. The study was conducted in the Ilorin metropolis, Kwara State, between February 15th and March 31st, 2024. The research aimed to assess the dietary patterns of mothers of their under five children in the city. The study used a descriptive design and a multistage sampling technique to select 225 children of under-five age. The sample size was determined using the Leslie Kish multistage formula. Data collection tools included self-structured questionnaires, weighing scales for children, and meter rules. The study used SPSS 25.0 windows for data analysis, which was presented using frequency distribution tables, percentages, chi-square, and univariate regression statistical methods. The findings showed that dietary practices by mothers significantly influence the body max index of children (at p<0.05), with undernutrition being more prevalent. Overweight and normal children were the least associated with dietary practices (at p<0.05). The study also found that the dietary practice of children is affected by mothers aged at first birth (at p<0.05), suggesting that mothers aged at first birth can contribute to formulating policies on right dietary practices to enhance nutrition security, especially for young mothers between 18 and 25 years old. The findings provided insights into strategic interventions to enhance dietary practices and eradicate all forms of malnutrition associated with undernutrition in children under five years old.