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Factors influencing early introduction of complementary feeding in children under 2 years in Limpopo province

Ndiambani A Makhavhu1, Ndidzulafhi S Raliphaswa, Mphedziseni E Rangwaneni

  • 1Department of Advanced Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou. 11503396@mvula.univen.ac.za.

Curationis
|November 4, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Young mothers in Vhembe District introduce complementary foods early due to cultural beliefs and lack of information, impacting infant nutrition and development. This study highlights the need for improved maternal education on infant feeding practices.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Nutrition Science

Background:

  • Infant survival, growth, and development depend on adequate, safe complementary foods alongside breastfeeding until six months.
  • Early cessation of breastfeeding by young mothers leads to premature introduction of complementary foods, increasing malnutrition risks.
  • Malnutrition in children under two years can cause growth retardation, delayed mental development, and impaired intellectual capacity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify factors influencing the early introduction of complementary feeding in children under two years.
  • To investigate infant feeding practices in selected hospitals within the Vhembe District, Limpopo province.

Main Methods:

  • A qualitative research approach was employed.
  • Purposive sampling selected four hospitals in the Vhembe District with high malnutrition admission rates.
  • Unstructured focus group discussions were conducted with 32 young mothers, and data were analyzed using Tesch's eight steps.

Main Results:

  • Young mothers' knowledge of infant feeding practices is influenced by cultural beliefs and inadequate information on appropriate food types.
  • Misconceptions and varied beliefs regarding complementary feeding were identified among young mothers.
  • Insufficient knowledge can negatively impact children's normal growth and development due to a lack of proper nutrients.

Conclusions:

  • The study revealed diverse beliefs and misconceptions surrounding complementary feeding practices.
  • Findings underscore the necessity of enhancing young mothers' knowledge about appropriate complementary feeding.
  • Improved maternal education is crucial for optimizing infant nutrition and preventing malnutrition.
Abstract

Keywords:
children under 2 yearsearly complementary feedingearly introductionfactorsfeeding practicesinfant nutrition.

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