Introduction:

nowadays, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended during the first 6 months and may continue for up two years, complemented with adequate complementary feeding. If it is required, fruits, vegetables as well as gluten free cereals may be introduced between 4-6 months of age. It has been observed that an inadequate introduction causes alterations in development and favors food intolerances. The purpose of the present study is to assess the introduction of complementary feeding in children under 24 months of age in an urban health area with significant cultural diversity.

Material and methods:

descriptive observational study through interviews for 9 months (August 2014 to April 2015). Sociodemographic and economic variables, type of delivery, gestational age, care of the newborn by other members of the environment, vaccination and the first day of visit to the health center were evaluated. Related to feeding, the type of lactation, the age of initiation of formula feeding, and the time of introduction of complementary feeding were assessed.

Results:

51 children were evaluated. 94% of them started complementary feeding before 6 months (fruits and free gluten cereals). These data are greater if there is care by another family member (grandmother). There were no statistically significant differences in any of the variables analyzed, except for pneumococcal vaccination (p<0.001)

Conclusions:

in our environment, a correct introduction of complementary feeding is carried out. Applying community interventions can improve adherence to current recommendations.

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