| Anthropometric status, feeding mode and dietary intake of infants aged birth to 48 months were assessed in 102 infants and their families residing in the First Nations Community of Walpole Island, as a part of the longitudinal, multidisciplinary prevention project, Better Beginnings, Better Futures. At birth, 75% of infants were breastfed; however only 25.4% were exclusively breastfed at 3 months. Only one infant (0.98%) was fed in accordance with current infant feeding guidelines. The proportion of children ≥85 th percentile for weight-for-height was greater than expected. At 48-months of age, 25.7% and 30.0% of infants were ≥85th percentile for weight-for-height and BMI respectively. Preschoolers were at risk of inadequate intakes of folate, vitamin C, fibre, iron, zinc, vitamin A and possibly calcium. Mothers must be educated on feeding recommendations for infants and preschoolers. Physical activity must be encouraged for all family members. |
