Complementary Feeding - MCH Flashcards
What is the critical period covered by complementary feeding?
6–24 months.
What is the impact of delaying complementary feeding beyond 24 months?
It may lead to malnutrition, stunting, and delayed development.
Why are infants ready for complementary feeding after six months?
They are physiologically and developmentally ready to explore different tastes and textures.
What are the essential components of appropriate complementary feeding?
Timeliness, adequacy, safety, appropriate feeding frequency, and texture.
At what age should complementary feeding begin?
At 6 months of age.
Why should new foods be introduced one at a time during complementary feeding?
To identify allergies or intolerances and ensure proper adaptation to each food.
How much protein should complementary feeding provide daily for a child between 6 months and 3 years?
1.2–1.5 g/kg/day or about 20 g/day.
Why is iron vital in complementary feeding?
It is necessary for neuro-cognitive development and red blood cell formation.
What are the safety measures to consider in complementary feeding?
Hygienic storage and preparation, clean utensils, no bottles or teats.
How often should complementary feeds be given to a 6–8-month-old infant?
2–3 times per day, with breast milk as the primary food.
Why should semi-solid and nutrient-dense foods be prioritised during complementary feeding?
They align with the child’s developmental needs and provide essential nutrients.
What foods are considered inappropriate for complementary feeding?
Whole nuts, unpasteurised milk, honey, juices, and carbonated drinks.
What factors influence successful complementary feeding?
Availability of diverse foods, caregiver knowledge, accessibility, and patience.
Name two micronutrient deficiencies linked to inadequate complementary feeding.
Iron and vitamin A deficiencies.
What are the consequences of inadequate complementary feeding on immunity?
Low immunity, increased susceptibility to infections like diarrhoea and respiratory tract infections.
What are the three forms of growth failure associated with malnutrition?
Underweight, wasting, and stunting.
How does inadequate nutrition affect brain development in children?
It can cause poor cognition and brain underdevelopment, affecting intelligence later in life.
What is the economic impact of malnutrition in Nigeria?
Malnutrition causes a 2–3% GDP loss and reduces productivity by 20%.
What is the significance of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in measuring malnutrition’s societal impact?
DALYs quantify the health gap caused by malnutrition compared to ideal health scenarios.
How can healthcare practitioners support complementary feeding?
By providing education, practical feeding demonstrations, and nutrition interventions.
What are the roles of governments in improving complementary feeding?
Food fortification, flexible work policies for breastfeeding mothers, and resource allocation.
How can the private sector contribute to improving complementary feeding?
Supporting working mothers, developing novel products, and addressing nutrient gaps.
Why is a multi-dimensional approach essential in improving complementary feeding?
It requires collaboration across health, nutrition, agriculture, and social welfare sectors.
What is the role of fortified cereals in complementary feeding?
They provide essential nutrients, including iron, in an easily digestible form.
