Conceptual problems in nutrition education in Western Nigeria

A pilot survey of the factors affecting infant feeding practices in rural Western Nigeria highlights intercultural perceptual problems. Results show widespread use of imported, high cost carbohydrate foods and great resistance to the early introduction of local health protective items. It is commonly thought that "too much food" is bad for a child. Staff responsible for health education are held in a degree of disrepute not conducive to the acceptance of their educational efforts in the community. Recommendations include control of advertising; reviewed staff orientation and training; and an intensive campaign to reestablish breast feeding as the cultural norm. No data is presented on feeding of fluids (breast milk, additional milk, boiled water and glucose in water) and nonfluids (imported carbohydrate, local carbohydrate, local protein and fruits and vegetables) based on the mother's estimate of the age of a baby shown in a photograph. Approximate market prices of imported commodities commonly used for infant feeding in the study area are also included.