Evidence

Appropriate infant feeding is crucial for improving child survival . This review aims to explore the recommended practices, advantages of breastfeeding, and age-appropriate complementary feeding practices. The World Health Organization recommends an early initiation of breastfeeding within one hour of birth and exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months to combat killer diseases such as diarrheal diseases, pneumonia, and obesity. On the other hand, complementary feeding is recommended with increase in the diversity, quantity, consistency and frequency as the child gets older along with continued breastfeeding for 12 months. This paper concludes that Inappropriate complementary feeding is one of the major causes of malnutrition in children under the age of 5 years. It recommends that appropriate guidance be given to caregivers and healthcare workers to help them promote the healthy growth of infants and young children. This study provides useful recommendations for program implementers. Click here to read the paper.