A participatory approach to improved infant nutrition and complimentary feeding practices in British Bangladeshi families

The UK Bangladeshi population is one of the fastest growing, yet socio-economically disadvantaged ethnic groups in the UK. Nutrition in infancy determines child development and adult health. Complimentary Feeding (CF) establishes early nutritional intake and self-regulatory behaviours. However, practices are complex and influenced by culture, environment and acculturation following migration. 12.5% of British-Bangladeshi children aged 4-5 years are obese, increasing to 23.7% by 10-11 years. In adulthood, South Asians are 2-4 more likely to develop type II diabetes in the UK.