Complementary Feeding Practices of Infants and Young Children in Kibawe, Bukidnon, Philippines: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Rachelle Gaye Caiña; Allene Mae Marapao; Hare Britney Jasmin

doi:10.52751/cmujs.2025.v1.dtvk7k75

Authors

Rachelle Gaye Caiña Faculty Author
Allene Mae Marapao Author
Hare Britney Jasmin Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52751/cmujs.2025.v1.dtvk7k75

Keywords:

Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF), malnutrition risk factors, complementary feeding, dietary diversity

Abstract

Complementary feeding is introduced when breastmilk alone can no longer meet a child's energy and nutrient needs, ensuring the maintenance of good nutritional status. This community-based cross-sectional study in Kibawe, Bukidnon, assessed complementary feeding practices and associated factors among 32 children aged 6-23 months from Barangays Bukang Liwayway and Kiorao. Data were collected through interviews using adapted, pre-tested questionnaires and three-day 24-hour food recalls. Results showed that 65.5% of children were introduced to complementary foods at six months, and 66.7% continued breastfeeding beyond six months. However, 81.3% did not meet the Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD), resulting in the same proportion failing to achieve the Minimum Acceptable Diet (MAD), despite 71.9% meeting the Minimum Meal Frequency (MMF). Nutrient inadequacies were most pronounced for niacin (74.5%), vitamin A (67.5%), and calcium (64%) among non-breastfed children. Significant associations were observed between ethnicity, income, age, birth order, and mother/caregiver’s education and occupation with feeding indicators such as MMF, MDD, and MAD. These findings highlight the urgent need to improve complementary feeding practices to reduce malnutrition risks in the community.

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