IMPACT OF MATERNAL FEEDING PRACTICES ON THE ANTHROPOMETRIC INDICES OF CHILDREN AGED 0-5 YEARS IN RAFIN ZURFI AND BAYARA COMMUNITY OF BAUCHI LGA, BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA
Abstract
This study investigated the impact of maternal feeding practices on the anthropometric indices of children aged 0-5 years in Rafin Zurfi and Bayara community of Bauchi LGA, Bauchi State, Nigeria. The objectives include assessing maternal feeding practices, evaluating their effects on child health, and determining the adoption of appropriate feeding practices among mothers. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire administered to 300 mothers, with a final sample of 260 participants. The data collected encompassed demographic information, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding feeding, alongside anthropometric measurements of children. The results indicate that a significant proportion of mothers (38.5%) engage in positive feeding practices, such as daily fruit and vegetable consumption, while 38.5% introduce complementary foods at the recommended age of 6-9 months. However, gaps in knowledge and adherence to feeding guidelines remain, with 15.4% introducing complementary foods before 6 months. The anthropometric measurements revealed a mean weight of 14.0 kg and a mean height of 89.0 cm among children, with 46.2% of mothers reporting no growth issues. The findings underscore the correlation between maternal awareness and child health outcomes, highlighting the need for improved nutritional education. In conclusion, while maternal awareness of feeding practices is promising, significant gaps exist that necessitate targeted interventions. Recommendations include the development of educational programs to enhance mothers' knowledge of proper feeding practices, collaboration with healthcare providers for ongoing support, and the integration of nutrition education into existing maternal and child health programs. These efforts aim to improve child nutrition and health outcomes in the studied communities.
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