Recent research findings from the Socio-Economic Policy Research Institute and UNICEF find that poor complementary feeding practices predict child stunting in Lao PDR. To end undernutrition, we must focus on improving the diets of young children.
Despite ongoing initiatives, the lack of diversity in complementary foods and low feeding frequency continue to be problems. Children who are most at risk of experiencing poor feeding include children from rural areas and those with mothers who have low education levels. Breastfeeding status is also a critical predictor of meeting infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices.
Children who are fed enough of the right foods, in the right way, at the right time in their development, are more likely to survive, grow, develop and learn.
Find our published findings here.
Read a brief summarizing the issue, policy options and recommendations here.