Assessing an infant food frequency questionnaire: a pilot study (36.2)

Abstract

Adequate nutrition early in life optimizes growth and reduces the risk of obesity and chronic diseases in infancy and later in life. However, there is lack of data and instruments specifically designed to assess consumption early in life. This pilot study assessed an infant food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for clarity of questions and to identify additional questions/examples for inclusion. This FFQ was based on the 19‐item FFQ developed by the CDC, which was expanded to 55 items with additional questions on preparation/source of foods and supplements. A convenience sample of mothers 蠅21 years with infants <12 months (m) of age attending the pediatric hospital clinics in San Juan, Puerto Rico were recruited. Sixty mothers (28 with infants 1‐4m; 14 with infants 5‐8m and 18 with infants 9‐12m) completed the FFQ. Most considered it to be clear (90%). Ten percent was not clear when to report frequency by day or week. The word baby food was more accepted than commercial baby pure. In the open‐ended options, the most common fruits and vegetables reported were bananas, carrots, green beans, squash and pears. In terms of frequencies, only 18% of infants at 1‐4m, 7% at 5‐8m and 6% at 9‐12m were exclusively breastfed. In combination with formula, 11% at 1‐4m, 7% at 5‐8m and 0% at 9‐12m were breastfed. Cow’s milk was introduced <12m in 11%. Water was introduced early (39% of infants at 1‐4 m). Fruit juice (any type) was consumed by 14% at 1‐4m, 57% at 5‐8m and 89% at 9‐12m old. “Baby juice” (juice marketed for babies) was consumed by 11% at 1‐4m, 50% at 5‐8m and 61% at 9‐12m. Sodas were not consumed. Solids foods (cereals, fruits &amp; vegetables) were started <6m in 11%. Sweets were consumed by 12% starting at 7m. Most common supplements given were iron (67%) and multi‐vitamin (38%). Further work to assess validity of the FFQ is needed. A valid infant FFQ is important for understanding dietary consumption patterns in infants, which can help develop specific recommendations for fostering healthy eating habits in this stage of life. Grant Funding Source: This project was supported in part by NIMHHD 8G12‐MD007600