Background: Global evidence shows that during and after episodes of diarrhea and ARI, children’s growth is severely compromised if their diet lacks the extra nutrients needed for recovery. Increasing fluid intake while continuing to feed is crucial for better health outcomes. Aim Chi-Square analysis revealed significant associations between feeding practices with different sociodemographic and healthcare-related factors. Results: Appropriate feeding practices (continued feeding + increased fluids) during/after illness were observed in 19.9% of mothers/ caregivers. Associations between inappropriate feeding practices and younger maternal age, older child’s age, and fewer PNC visits for the mother were identified as statistically significant. (P<0.05). Conclusion: Only one-fifth of mothers followed appropriate feeding practices during diarrhea and ARI, highlighting a critical gap. Strengthening postnatal care services, targeting younger mothers, and reinforcing continued breastfeeding and feeding during illness are essential interventions to improve child nutrition and recovery outcomes.
Barua et al. (Fri,) studied this question.