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. 2019 Feb 27;7(4):1311-1327.
doi: 10.1002/fsn3.964. eCollection 2019 Apr.

Feasibility and acceptability of food-based complementary feeding recommendations using Trials of Improved Practices among poor families in rural Eastern and Western Uganda

Hana Bekele  1 , Florence Turyashemererwa  2
Affiliations

Feasibility and acceptability of food-based complementary feeding recommendations using Trials of Improved Practices among poor families in rural Eastern and Western Uganda

Hana Bekele et al. Food Sci Nutr. .

Abstract

Inadequate complementary feeding practices are a major contributor to stunting among children in Uganda. The WHO recommends the promotion of local food-based complementary feeding recommendations (FBCFRs) to address nutrient gaps during complementary feeding. This study tested the feasibility and acceptability of FBCFRs, using trials of improved practices (TIPs). Qualitative and quantitative methods were used in a cross-sectional survey over three household visits. At first household visit, information on socio-demographic factors and food frequency was collected and FBCFRs introduced. The second household visit assessed the use and barriers related to the FBCFRs, while the third household visit assessed the continued use of the FBCFRs. Focus group discussions and key informant interviews provided the insights into community norms on the FBCFRs. Most FBCFRs were feasible and acceptable. However, caretakers found it difficult to implement a full set of FBCFRs together with the recommended frequencies. Caretakers were more likely to try and continue using FBCFRs that had familiar methods of preparation and commonly used ingredients. Seasonality and cost were major barriers to use. Through TIPs, mothers demonstrated that they are open to try new ways of improving their children's nutrition.

Keywords: Uganda; complementary feeding; infant and young child feeding; trails of improved practices.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have no conflict of interest. General Disclaimer: The named authors alone are responsible for the views expressed in this publication. In no event shall WHO be responsible for the content of this publication.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Use of household food crops in eastern versus western regions
Figure 2
Figure 2
Scale of difficulty in implementing food‐based complementary feeding recommendations in eastern Uganda
Figure 3
Figure 3
Food frequency of foods in the eastern region among children before and after TIPs exercise
Figure 4
Figure 4
Scale of difficulty in implementing food‐based complementary feeding recommendations in western Uganda
Figure 5
Figure 5
Food frequency of foods in the western region among children before and after TIPs exercise
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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