A Comparative Study on Complementary Feeding Practices among Mothers in Urban and Rural Areas in Trichur District, Kerala

Background: The second half of an infant's first year is a vulnerable time when breast milk alone cannot meet the nutritional requirements and complementary feeding (CF) should be initiated. CF needs to be nutritionally adequate and appropriate. Objective: To study and compare the complementary feeding practices among mothers in selected rural and urban areas in Thrissur district. Methods: A comparative descriptive study was conducted among mothers of children in the age group of one to two years. The house-to-house survey was conducted in field practice area of Amala Institute of Medical Sciences, Thrissur from January 2016 to June 2017. Data was collected using pretested questionnaire using interview method and analysed. Results: All the care givers interviewed were the mothers of the children.71.2% of mothers in urban areas started weaning at 6 months as compared to 66.8% in urban areas. The most common weaning food was Banana powder in both groups, followed by Ragi. 53% mother started early weaning due to insufficient breast milk. Conclusion: A significant number of infants are initiated on complementary feeds prior to 6 months of age. There is a significant difference in the most of the feeding practices among mothers in the urban and rural area. Intense health education is required to improve the complementary feeding practices.