Profiling infant feeding patterns in Cebu, Philippines

Using biomonthly data, we developed individual longitudinal feeding profiles for 2,635 infants in Cebu, Philippines, to examine diets during the first year of life. Cluster analysis differentiated infants’ full dietary intakes into predominant feeding patterns based on intakes categorized into 19 food groupings. Nine food groupings distinguished the patterns, which were further simplified in order to create a small number of cross‐sectional patterns that could be linked into longitudinal profiles. The large number of unique profiles for urban and rural infants indicates a wide range of feeding strategies. This approach allowed examination of the diversity, sequencing and timing of infant‐feeding patterns. The analyses provide convincing evidence of the potential value of profiles in examining variability in weaning and feeding strategies by relevant biologic, socioeconomic and demographic factors.

Key words:

• Infant feeding
• Philippines
• cluster analysis
• food patterns
• profiles
• nutrient intakes
• socioeconomic factors
• urban‐rural residence