Nutritional quality of complementary feeding: comparison between different methods

Abstract

Introduction: In the first years of life, infant feeding plays a fundamental role in shaping long-term eating habits. Complementary feeding (CF) should be started at six months of age, providing essential nutrients for the infant's development. Feeding introduction methods vary culturally and include traditional, Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) and participatory. However, the choice of the ideal method is still uncertain. Objective: To identify different ways of introducing complementary feeding to children and how this affects the nutritional quality of the diet. Methods: A cross-sectional study in which 39 women and 40 chidrens were interviewed and provided information on food consumption and the introduction of complementary feeding. The mother-child dyad was part of the research “Evaluation of the cooking skills of puerperal women at a University Hospital” when they were admitted to the Lauro Wanderley University Hospital, between February and May 2021. Contact was made via telephone or WhatsApp, using questionnaires to assess infant feeding. Results: the traditional method favors the consumption of mashed fruit, while the BLW/mixed method encourages greater food exploration, with a prevalence of fruit in pieces. However, the rate of acceptance may be slower in the latter method. Conclusion: the method of food introduction influences the way fruit is consumed, impacting on eating habits.