Complementary feeding practices, dietary diversity, and nutrient composition of complementary foods of children 6–24 months old in Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia

Table 2 Complementary feeding practices of children 6–24 months old in three districts of Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia, from March to May 2014

Variables	Number	Percent
Exclusive breastfeeding^a
Yes	496	88.9
No	62	11.1
Continued breastfeeding ≥ 2 years old^a
Yes	422	75.6
No	136	24.4
Time of initiation of complementary feeding
Before 6 months	49	11.6
Just at 6 months	350	82.9
After 6 months	23	5.5
Preparation of special additional food
Yes	258	46.2
No	300	53.8
Particular food during sickness or recovery
Yes	47	8.4
No	511	91.6
Feeding frequency
> 2 times a day	39	9.2
3–4 times a day	326	76.9
3–4 times + 1–2 snack	59	13.9
Dietary diversity score
< 4 food groups per day	303	54.3
> 4 food groups per day	255	45.7
Food groups fed to children^b
Cereals and grains	384	68.8
Fruits	157	28.1
Vegetables	215	38.5
Protein rich	249	44.6
Dairy products	100	17.9
Oil and fat	226	40.5
Discretionary calories	299	53.6

ISSN: 2072-1315