Factors associated with dietary divesity among children 6 to 23 months in Northern Uganda

Abstract

Different foods and food groups are important sources of various macro- and micronutrients, which are essential for the physical and mental growth and development of children. Providing children with a diversified diet is therefore crucial. However, little is known about the factors influencing dietary diversity among children in the Northern region of Uganda. This study aimed to examine the factors associated with dietary diversity among children aged 6 to 23 months in this region. Data was analyzed from 387 children aged 6–23 months, collected through the 2022 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS). A Negative Binomial regression model was applied to investigate the factors associated with dietary diversity, with model accuracy confirmed through the Likelihood Ratio chi-square test and the link specification test. Findings are presented as adjusted Risk Ratios (aRR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI). On average, children in the Northern region consumed only 3 out of the 8 recommended food groups. The Negative Binomial regression model identified significant associations between child dietary diversity and several factors. Children from the Lango sub-region (aIRR = 2.106; 95% CI: 1.075–4.124) and those with higher birth-order (aIRR = 1.235; 95% CI: 1.197–1.529) had higher rates of dietary diversity. In contrast, breastfed children (aIRR = 0.420; 95% CI: 0.218–0.807) and those living in larger households (aIRR = 0.931; 95% CI: 0.837–0.994) were found to have significantly lower rates of dietary diversity compared to their respective counterparts. These findings indicated low child dietary diversity in the region, underscoring the need to implement interventions and support programs that focus on improving access to nutritious foods, promoting food security, and providing targeted resources to households with lower dietary diversity. Additionally, enhancing breastfeeding support programs and implementing regional sensitive nutrition education programs may contribute to improved dietary diversity and raise awareness about its importance for children's health and well-being.