Aspectos influenciadores da introdução alimentar infantil

Abstract

Introduction: The Ministry of Health recommends that the introduction of infant food be made at 6 months of age; however, it is observed that many families introduce food before this age group, which can harm the child’s health. This may be due to existing beliefs, previous family experiences, and other social and cultural factors. Objective: To investigate aspects that influence the food introduction for children. Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional, quantitative research, with a non-probabilistic, convenience sample. The study included 22 parents or guardians of children aged up to 24 months. A questionnaire containing questions related to the child, the family and socio-cultural factors and questions about food introduction, beliefs and knowledge about this introduction, was applied with the parents or guardians. Results: There was a prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months of 31.8% and right timely feeding of 45%. The results show a correlation between schooling, income, health insurance and occupation of parents outside the home with knowledge about complementary feeding. A correlation was also found between the parents’ knowledge and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding and the time when complementary feeding was introduced. Conclusion: From the results, it can be inferred that the level of education, occupation and family income influence the parents’ knowledge about food introduction. And that this knowledge influences the duration of exclusive breastfeeding and the timing of food introduction.