[Hemoglobin concentration, breastfeeding and complementary feeding in the first year of life]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nutrition
• Hematology

Background:

• Iron deficiency anemia is a significant global health concern in infants.
• Infant feeding practices play a crucial role in iron status and hemoglobin levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and hemoglobin concentration in infants.
• To identify specific feeding patterns that influence hemoglobin levels in the first year of life.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 553 infants under 12 months attending public healthcare facilities.
• Hemoglobin concentration measured using the cyanmethaemoglobin method (HemoCue system).
• Multiple linear regression analysis to determine associations.

Main Results:

• Anemia (hemoglobin < 11 g/dL) was prevalent in 62.8% of infants, highest in the 6-12 month age group (72.6%).
• Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months was associated with the highest hemoglobin levels.
• Formula feeding was linked to anemia (p=0.009); water/tea intake reduced hemoglobin by 0.76 g/dL in infants <6 months (p<0.001).
• In infants 6-12 months, sugar (p=0.017) and beans (p=0.018) increased hemoglobin, while fruit decreased it (p<0.001).

Conclusions:

• Exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months, followed by continued breastfeeding, supports higher hemoglobin levels.
• Appropriate complementary feeding is vital for preventing anemia and optimizing hemoglobin concentration in the first year.
• Dietary interventions focusing on iron-rich foods and appropriate fluid intake are recommended.