The Relationship Between Exclusive Breastfeeding History and Complete Food Provision Practices with the Incidence of Stunting in Toddlers Aged 6-24 Months

Abstract

Background: Stunting is a manifestation of growth failure caused by chronic malnutrition that remains a serious public health problem in Indonesia, particularly in the West Sulawesi region. Objective: This study aims to analyze the relationship between the history of exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding (MP-ASI) practices toward the incidence of stunting among toddlers aged 6–24 months in Buntubuda Village, Mamasa Regency. Methods: This analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design involved 56 toddlers selected using a total sampling technique. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and Semi-Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (SQ-FFQ) forms. Data analysis was performed using the Chi-Square test (α = 0.05). Results: The prevalence of stunting at the study site was found to be 33.9%. Statistical test results showed a significant relationship between stunting incidence and a history of exclusive breastfeeding (p=0.008), timing of complementary feeding (p = 0.002), frequency of complementary feeding (p = 0.001), and dietary diversity (p = 0.004). Furthermore, the intake of energy, protein, and carbohydrates was also significantly associated with stunting (p = 0.002), whereas fat intake showed no significant relationship (p = 0.715). Conclusion: Inadequate feeding practices are the primary determinants of stunting. Intensive education for mothers regarding nutritional parenting and the importance of food variety is required to prevent growth failure in toddlers