Factors contributing to inappropriate timing, quantity and consistency in complementary feeding

Background: An appropriate diet is critical in growth and development of children especially in the first two year of life. World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breast-feeding (BF) for the first 6-month, addition of complementary feeds at 6 months with continued BF till at least 2 years. These feeding recommendations if followed appropriately can decrease infant mortality by 19% and prevent malnutrition especially in developing countries as ours. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Navodaya Medical College, Raichur, over 6 months. A total of 200 children aged 6 months to 2 years attending Paediatrics OPD of our hospital for minor illness and children who came for immunization, were interviewed after a informed consent. Results: Among 200 children studied, 32 (16%) were not started on CF at all, and only 35 (17.5%) received CF from 6 months. Of 168 who were started on CF, the mean age was 13.37 months, with adequate quantity in 25% and thick consistency in 38%. Only 3.5% of mothers met all criteria for CF. Knowledge of CF was linked to maternal education (P < 0.05). Most common reason for inappropriate practice in 154 mothers who delayed feeds was “tried but did not eat, vomits everything” (52%). Conclusions: The study reveals a “practice gap” and “knowledge gap” in complementary feeding among mothers, emphasizing the need for education. Addressing these gaps through targeted interventions, during immunization sessions, and enhancing maternal education can significantly improve complementary feeding practices and outcomes in children.