Household Food Security and Consumption Habits of Lactagogue Foods with Perception of Sufficient Breast Milk Among Breastfeeding Mothers of the Kaili Tribe in Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi: A Mixed-Methods Study

One of the most effective strategies for improving infant and young child health and survival is breastfeeding and breastfeeding practices. Many factors influence low exclusive breastfeeding rates, including household food insecurity and inadequate maternal nutrient intakes. This study aimed to assess the association between household food security and consumption habits of lactagogue foods with perception of sufficient breast milk among breastfeeding mothers of the Kaili tribe, Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi. This study used a mixed-methods cross-sectional design conducted from February to May 2024 in the Sigi Regency of Central Sulawesi. Qualitative data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions (FGDs), each involving five breastfeeding mothers, ten breastfeeding mothers, and 36 people, including village heads, village midwives, cadres, religious/community leaders, traditional leaders, and paraji. Qualitative data informants were selected using purposive sampling methods. Quantitative data were collected from 337 breastfeeding mothers' households using multistage random sampling. The results showed that most breastfeeding mothers of the Kaili tribe had the habit of consuming lactagogue foods, including bavoa (Cleome gynandra L), pumpkin leaves, sweet potato leaves, and banana blossom, in adequate amounts and frequently. Chi-Square test showed a significant association (p = < 0.001) between household food security based on HFIAS and perception of sufficient breast milk. Amount of lactagogue food consumption was significantly associated (p = < 0.001) with perception of sufficient breast milk. Consumption habits of lactagogue foods in the breastfeeding mothers of the Kaili tribe should be maintained to support the success of exclusive breastfeeding practices.