Feeding and rearing practices in rural area of Jhansi-Bundelkhand

Feeding practices prevalent in 776 children of Jhansi rural area in the age group of 0–4 yr were studied. Colostrum was utilized as a first feed in only 9.1% of the cases. Diluted milk was given as a first feed in 30.1% of cases. Boiled water and honey with water were used as first feed in 23.3% and 17.1% of the cases respectively. Another important feeding practice observed was prolonged breast feeding as a tradition which seemed to be influenced by education. Semi-solids and solids were introduced late in these children. 60.8% children received semi-solids and solids in their second year of age. Commonest supplementary milk given to the infants in this study was cows milk (75.3%) Majority (79.7%) of the mothers were in favour of diluting the milk.