Assessing dietary intake and growth of infants

Objective Early cessation of breastfeeding and introduction of solids is common in Australia, which may have implications for child growth and obesity risk. This study aimed to contrast usual energy and macronutrient intake of infants against requirements according to feeding modality (n=670) and determine whether early introduction of solids and cessation of breastfeeding were independently associated with rapid growth (weight gain z-score ≥ 0.67) between birth to age six months (n=220). Methods An analysis of data from mothers and infants participating in the NOURISH and South Australian Infant Dietary Intake (SAIDI) studies was undertaken. Both studies enrolled mothers on the postnatal wards from 11 large hospitals in South Australia and Brisbane consecutively. Anthropometric data, infant feeding practices and three days of infant dietary intake data were collected at birth and again when infants were aged 4-8 months. Results Usual energy intakes were above estimated requirements for infants aged 4-Conclusion Higher protein intake may contribute to rapid weight gain in this group. These data are important in elucidating the influence of early nutrition on subsequent health and weight status. More support is needed for mothers to increase duration of breastfeeding and increase awareness of infant hunger and satiety cues during feeding