Weaning Foods and Nutritional Status of Under-Five Children in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria

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@article{1711272,
      author = {Julius Ekunke Ajaba},
      title = {Weaning Foods and Nutritional Status of Under-Five Children in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2025},
      volume = {9},
      number = {4},
      pages = {658-663},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1711272.pdf},
      abstract = {Background: This study investigates the weaning practices and nutritional status of under-five children in Minna, Niger State. The aim was to assess maternal knowledge and attitudes toward weaning, evaluate children's nutritional status, and identify the link between weaning practices and child health outcomes.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. Structured questionnaires were administered to 220 mothers/caregivers in Minna Metropolis, collecting demographic data, weaning knowledge, and practices. Nutritional status was assessed using anthropometric measurements.

Results: The sample consisted of mothers/caregivers aged from under 20 years to over 40 years, with diverse educational and occupational backgrounds. Over half of the participants (57.27%) had poor knowledge of weaning, and 73.18% of children were underweight. Early weaning (before 6 months) was prevalent in 85% of cases, with poor weaning practices linked to malnutrition. The findings suggest a significant relationship between early weaning and underweight status in children.

Conclusion: The study highlights critical gaps in knowledge regarding weaning practices, pointing to the need for targeted educational interventions. Improving maternal knowledge and practices is essential for addressing malnutrition in under-five children in Minna Metropolis.
},
      keywords = {Weaning practices, nutritional status, under-five children, Minna Metropolis, malnutrition, infant feeding.},
      month = {October},
  }