Exploring Physicians' Perspectives on the Introduction of Complementary Foods to Infants and Toddlers

Nutrients. 2021 Oct 12;13(10):3559. doi: 10.3390/nu13103559.

Abstract

Complementary feeding is the subject of many recommendations regarding the benefits of its use, illustrating its crucial impact on further health. However, it still poses a significant problem for caregivers, and thus for doctors. This survey focused on nutritional problems faced by the parents of infants and toddlers, as well as how physicians deal with these problems. Based on the responses from 303 doctors, it was determined that the time and sequence of introducing complementary foods raise the greatest doubts in parents. This study also found that at least one-third of pediatricians experience difficulties in providing effective nutritional counseling. Increasing the nutritional awareness of physicians can allow them to provide more appropriate support to parents.

Keywords: complementary feeding; family counseling; nutrition; pediatrics; weaning.

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena*
  • Parents
  • Pediatricians*