Affiliation:
1. Faculty of Medicine University of Colima Colima Mexico
2. Clinical Epidiemiology Research Unit Mexican Institute of Social Security Villa de Álvarez Colima Mexico
Abstract
AbstractAimOur aim was to identify independent determinants of rapid weight gain in infants at 3‐4, 6, and 12 months of age.MethodsA cohort study was conducted on Mexican term infants in public and private settings between March 2021 and May 2023. Rapid weight gain was defined as a ≥0.67 SD change in weight‐for‐age‐Z‐score from birth to 3‐4, 6, and 12 months of age. Maternal and infant characteristics were described, and infant feeding practices, appetitive traits, weight, and length were analysed at 3‐4, 6, and 12 months of age. Rapid weight gain predictors were determined using generalised linear regression models.ResultsIn total, 168 infants were recruited (55% boys). Small‐for‐gestational‐age status increased rapid weight gain risk 1.5 times, whereas large‐for‐gestational‐age status represented a 20%–30% decrease. Slowness in eating decreased the risk by 10%. Protective factors were older maternal age and higher educational level, whereas formula feeding, early complementary feeding, greater food enjoyment, and satiety responsiveness increased the risk.ConclusionsSmall for gestational age, slowness in eating, and feeding practices can be rapid weight gain predictors across the first year of life.