Patterns and practice of complementary feeding in children in primary care in the Kingdom of Bahrain

الملخص EN

Background and objectives: Complementary food patterns play a fundamental role in infant growth and health, especially in the first two years of life.

This study aimed to explore the pattern and practice of complementary feeding of infants in Bahrain.

Methods: A cross-sectional study, including 364 children attending the primary healthcare clinics in four primary health centers was conducted in Bahrain.

A pre-tested structured questionnaire, including a one week recall food frequency was administered.

Data was collected via face to face interview with caregivers.

Results: Of the 364 caregivers interviewed, only 56% followed the recommendation of introduction of food at the age of six months, whereas, 41.8% caregivers followed the recommended number of meals at the age of nine months.

Mothers experience was associated with complementary food introduction age (P < 0.008).

Conclusion: The pattern and practice of complementary feeding in Bahrain is not meeting the WHO recommendations