Relationship between breastfeeding practices and nutritional status of children aged 6-24 months in South-west Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding is the ideal form of nutrition for the healthy growth of infants, and it reduces the risk of malnutrition and several childhood morbidities. Objectives: To assess the breastfeeding practices of mothers and the relationship between these practices and the nutritional status of their children. Methods: It was a descriptive, hospital-based, cross-sectional study that involved children aged six to 24 months in Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria. Socio-demographic characteristics and breastfeeding practices were documented, anthropometric measurements were obtained, and nutritional status was determined for the children. Underweight, stunting and wasting were defined as z-score