[Complementary feeding and nutritional status of 6-24-month-old children in Acrelândia, Acre State, Western Brazilian Amazon]

Cad Saude Publica. 2011 Feb;27(2):305-16. doi: 10.1590/s0102-311x2011000200012.
[Article in Portuguese]

Abstract

Our objective was to investigate nutritional status and complementary feeding practices in children from 6 to 24 months of age living in the Western Brazilian Amazon. A cross-sectional study was conducted within an urban area of Acrelândia, Acre State. A total of 164 children were studied. Prevalence rates for stunting and anemia were 12% and 40%, respectively, and overall prevalence of iron deficiency was 85%. Vitamin A and B12 serum levels were below normal thresholds in 15% and 12% of children, respectively. Low intake was observed for the following nutrients (% of children): folic acid (33%), vitamin C (40%), vitamin A (42%), zinc (46%), and iron (71%). Iron bioavailability in the diet was approximately 8%. Very low dietary intakes of fruits, vegetables, and meats were observed, in contrast with excessive consumption of cow's milk and porridge.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / blood
  • Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / epidemiology*
  • Biological Availability
  • Brazil / epidemiology
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Diet*
  • Feeding Behavior*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena*
  • Iron, Dietary / administration & dosage*
  • Male
  • Nutritional Status / physiology*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Urban Population
  • Vitamins / administration & dosage
  • Vitamins / blood

Substances

  • Iron, Dietary
  • Vitamins