An exploration of complementary feeding practices, information needs and sources

Garcia, A. , Looby, S., McLean-Guthrie, K. and Parrett, A. (2019) An exploration of complementary feeding practices, information needs and sources. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(22), 4311. (doi: 10.3390/ijerph16224311) (PMID:31698714) (PMCID:PMC6888072)

Abstract

Following complementary feeding (CF) guidelines might be challenging for mothers lacking time, resources and/or information. We aimed to explore CF practices, information needs and channels used to obtain information in parents living in areas of socioeconomic deprivation. Sixty-four parents of infants aged 4–12 months completed a short questionnaire and 21 were interviewed. Mean (SD) weaning age was 5 ± 2.5 months, foods given >7 times/week included commercial baby foods (33%) and fruits (39%) while 86% gave formula daily. The main sources of CF information were friends and family (91%), the internet (89%) and health visitors (77%). Online forums (20%), e.g., Facebook and Netmums, were used to talk to other parents because they felt that “not enough” information was given to them by health professionals. Parents felt access to practical information was limited and identified weaning classes or online video tutorials could help meet their needs. Themes identified in qualitative findings were (1) weaning practices (i.e., concerns with child’s eating; and (2) information sources and needs (i.e., trust in the National Health Service (NHS) as a reliable source, need for practical advice). In conclusion, parents are accessing information from a number of non-evidence-based sources and they express the need for more practical advice.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Garcia, Dr Ada and Parrett, Dr Alison

Creator Roles

Garcia, A.: Conceptualization, Methodology, Writing – review and editing
Parrett, A.: Conceptualization, Writing – review and editing

• Authors: Garcia, A., Looby, S., McLean-Guthrie, K., and Parrett, A.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing
• Journal Name: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
• Publisher: MDPI
• ISSN: 1661-7827
• ISSN (Online): 1660-4601
• Published Online: 06 November 2019
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2019 The Authors
• First Published: First published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 16(22):4311
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License