Research into an inner city area¹ and amongst the Asian Population² raises concerns about infant feeding and weaning practices which fall short of current government recommendations³.

Research from Daly et al¹ shows that many mothers in the inner city turn to their own mothers or friends and relatives for advice and help on infant feeding. However, this advice can be out of date and is often flawed. Poor infant feeding practices that were common practice a few years ago are being perpetuated.

In the first survey into Asian infant feeding and weaning practices², the main source of advice for mothers on feeding their children was again from family members. However, up to a third of mothers welcomed more help and information on infant feeding.

Asian infants were smaller than white infants both at birth and at nine weeks. Bangladeshi babies still weighed less than white infants even at 15 months.

More feeding problems such as colic, allergy and weaning difficulties were reported in the Asian infants at 15 months, compared to white infants, and this was associated with poor weight gain.

Previous studies confirm that energy and protein intake in Asian children under two is lower than their white counterparts.

Up to a third of Asian infants had iron deficiency anaemia compared to the national incidence of 12% in 18-30 month olds⁴. This was related to the large quantities of cows` milk being consumed.

10 examples of poor feeding practice for Health Visitors to watch out for (as identified in the inner city and Asian studies)

• Adding water to powder when making up infant milk
• Adding an extra scoop of infant milk to the bottle
• Adding rusks or other solids to bottles
• Using bottles beyond one year
• Using cows’ milk as a main drink before one year
• Storing made-up bottles in the fridge door, on the counter or in the nursery at night
• Offering too many dessert type solids instead of savoury foods (especially among Asian familes)
• Infants drinking too much milk and not enough solids appropriate for their age
• Offering solids before four months of age
• Using microwave ovens to warm bottles

For more information visit (click each link to access)

Cow & Gate Weaning Foods
The Infant and Toddler Forum website

For parents - for practical advice and information and advice weaning and suitable products, visit the Cow & Gate website using this link:

Cow & Gate parents website – information and advice about weaning


References

1. Daly A, MacDonald A, Booth IW. (1998) Diet and disadvantage:observations on infant feeding from an inner city. J Hum Nutr & diet; 11: 1381
2. Thomas M, Avery V. (1997) Infant feeding in Asian families. Summary of findings. The Stationary Office, London
3. Department of Health (1995). Committee on Medical Aspects of Food Policy. Weaning and the weaning diet. Rep HlthSoc Subj 45, HMSO London
4. Lawson MS, Thomas M, Hardiman A. (1998). Iron status of Asian children aged 2 years living in England. Arch. Dis Child; 78: 420