Determinants of Complementary Feeding Indicators: A Secondary Analysis of Thailand Multiple Indicators Cluster Survey 2019

Abstract

Child complementary feeding (CF) practices meet dietary recommendations more often among educated, high-income groups. Much of the evidence for this association addresses inadequate CF for addressing child undernutrition. However, in many countries, including Thailand, child malnutrition assessments must now address under- and over-nutrition. More comprehensive data is needed to understand this complex situation. This study uses data from the Thailand Multiple Indicators Survey 2019, to identify the determinants of CF practices among 6–23-month children (n = 4125) using the newly developed WHO indicators. Logistic regression analysis was used to measure associations between sociodemographic factors and CF practices. In a fully adjusted model, child age, primary caregivers’ education, and household incomes were statistically associated with (in)appropriate CF practices. Older children aged 9–23 months, not only have better minimum dietary diversity (MDD), minimum acceptable diet (MAD), and egg and/or flesh food consumption (EFF), but also tend to consume more unhealthy foods. The proportion of inappropriate CF practices was higher among children living with caregivers other than their mothers. While maternal education and household income were positively associated with MDD and MAD, children of mothers from middle-class households consumed more sweetened beverages. Therefore, nutrition programs addressing different feeding problems should be developed specifically for different primary caregiver and demographic groups.