ASSESSMENT OF FEEDING PRACTICES, NUTRITIONAL STATUS, AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS OF LACTATING WOMEN IN GARIN SARKIN SHANU, AKKO LGA, GOMBE STATE

ABSTRACT Millions of individuals in the developing countries suffer disproportionately from undernourishment and bad health due to avoidable causes This study investigates the feeding practices, nutritional status, and associated factors influencing nursing mothers in Garin Sarkin Shanu, Akko Local Government Area, Gombe State. Adequate maternal nutrition is essential for both the health of the mother and the child, particularly during the breastfeeding period. Majority of participants were aged 26-35 years, married, and had primary-level education. Most respondents were full-time housewives. Feeding Patterns 71.8% breastfed their infants within the first week, with 39.6% starting within 1 hour of delivery. Mixed feeding was uncommon. Maternal Health 47.5% reported sickness post-delivery, with common illnesses being diarrhea and fever. Breast problems were prevalent, affecting 89.1% of mothers. Anthropometry 25.3% of mothers were chronically energy deficient with a BMI below 18.5 kg/m², while 5.9% were overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²). The findings highlight the need for nutritional support and better healthcare for lactating mothers to address prevalent health and feeding challenges. To determine the socio economic factors of the respondent The study was conducted in Garin Sarkin Shanu rural area, in Akko L.G.A Gombe State Nigeria. Akko Local Government Area is one of the eleven (11) Local Government in Gombe State North east Nigeria with estimated population of 202,144 people with the land mass area 737 area kilometers according to census 2006 report. The study found that most lactating women in Garin Sarkin Shanu did not consume additional meals during lactation, leading to inadequate energy and nutrient intake below FAO/WHO/UNU recommendations.