Introduction of complementary feeding and associated factors in preterm and low birthweight newborns: a prospective cohort study

This study aimed to analyze the association between sociodemographic factors, maternal and neonatal characteristics and the time taken to introduce complementary feeding in low birthweight and preterm newborns. This is a prospective cohort study of 79 preterm newborns weighing less than or equal to 1,800g. Data were collected at the time of hospital discharge and at the 6th, 9th ,and 12th months of corrected gestational age (CGA), using a structured questionnaire to analyze the time taken to introduce complementary feeding and the texture of the foods introduced. Furthermore, the Survey of Well-being of Young Children (SWYC-BR) was used to assess the risk of developmental delay. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to analyze the variables. The introduction of complementary feeding was assessed in preterm newborns based on the median age of introduction of liquid foods (3.50; IQR: 2.50-5.00), followed by solid (4.70; IQR: 3.20-5.20) and soft foods (5.00; IQR: 4.50-5.50). There was also an association with gestational age (RR = 1.25; 95%CI: 1.02-1.52) throughout the process of food introduction. For solid and soft foods, those with the longest length of stay (RR = 1.03; 95%CI: 1.10-1.05) and on mixed breastfeeding (RR = 2.97; 95%CI: 1.24-7.09) delayed the introduction of complementary feeding the longest. For liquid foods, less severe preterm newborns (Score for Neonatal Acute Physiology and Perinatal Extension - SNAPPE II [RR = 0.96; 95%CI: 0.94-0.98]) and mothers who were breastfeeding at hospital discharge (RR = 11.49; 95%CI: 1.57-84.10) delayed the introduction of complementary feeding. Guidelines are needed to better advise professionals and parents and/or guardians on the ideal time to introduce feeding.