Feeding patterns and dietary diversity scores of 6 to 36 month old children from Retalhuleu, Guatemala (828.5)

Feeding pattern and dietary diversity was evaluated in 339 stunted children (HAZ < -1) 6-36 mo of age from Retalhuleu using a food frequency questionnaire (Food and Nutrition Technical Assistance protocol). Dietary assessment was utilized to determine the frequency of food consumption for 7 consecutive days and was considered adequate if the food was included a minimum of 3x/wk in 75% of the population. Results indicated breast milk consumption was not adequate; 73% of children 0-6 mo were breastfed at least 3x/wk and consumption decreased to 61% in children 19-24 mo. The primary source of vitamin A was fortified sugar resulting in 88-96% of the age groups having adequate vitamin A consumption patterns; vegetables rich in vitamin A were not consumed (0%). Meat and poultry had adequate consumption in the 25-30 mo age group (80%), while younger children had intakes less than 75%. Consumption of cereals and grains increased with age and adequate consumption averaged 84% for infants and 86% for children 25-36...