Complementary Feeding Practices And Nutritional Value Of Complementary Foods Used By Igbo Mothers Of Imo And Abia States Of Nigeria

ABSTRACT

The study examined the Complementary foods and the weaning practices adopted by Igbo Mothers of Imo and Abia States of Nigeria and the nutrient densities of the foods. Most complementary foods were formulated from locally available foods like Maize, Cassava, Rice, Soybean etc. Proximate, Vitamins and Minerals analysis were done for moisture, ash fibre, Lipid, Protein, Carbohydrate, Energy, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, iron, phosphorus and iodine. Validated questionnaire were administered to 100 nursing Mothers by random sampling. Data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages. Chi-square was computed to test for homogeniety/variances (Significant differences) of the data. Energy and nutrient densities were calculated from the result of analysis. Based on the findings, it was recommended that mothers should be encouraged to add nutritious foods to baby's diet to improve the value of complementary foods given to the babies, according to FAO/WHO recommendation