Enhancing Child Dietary Diversity through Cooking Demonstration and Nutritional Education in rural Lao PDR

Abstract

Background: Efforts to prevent malnutrition in children under five are crucial for both short-term and long-term impact, especially in resource-constrained low- and middle-income countries where ensuring minimal food diversity remains an urgent challenge. Our organization implemented initiatives to improve dietary diversity among children under five in rural areas of Laos. Methods: We conducted educational and awareness-raising activities targeting caregivers of children under five, as well as healthcare workers and educated community volunteers, in selected regions of Xaybouathong District, Khammouane Province. We conducted surveys at baseline and endline, using the Individual Dietary Diversity Score (IDDS) through a 24-hour recall method to compare the food diversity of all children under five residing in the intervention area. Results: By comparing 232 children at baseline and 225 children at endline, we observed a significant increase in IDDS among children aged 6 to 23 months (from 3.36 to 4.22) and children aged 24 to 59 months (from 3.29 to 3.83). Evaluation of food groups showed significant increases in the consumption of miscellaneous vegetables and fruits, eggs, legumes and nuts, and breastfeeding. Conclusion: Identifying locally available foods and those contributing to improved dietary diversity and ensuring access to information promoting their dietary diversity is crucial for securing minimal dietary diversity.