Summary
This targeted narrative review synthesized 16 studies (10 Indonesian, 6 non-Indonesian or multi-country) on the association between dietary diversity during complementary feeding and nutritional status in children aged 6–23 months. Overall, higher dietary diversity was associated with more favourable anthropometric outcomes, particularly linear growth and reduced stunting odds, though associations varied by setting and after adjustment for confounders. The review highlights that improving dietary diversity in Indonesia requires context-specific approaches addressing caregiver practices, food-system constraints, and healthcare capacity.
Regional applicability
The review directly addresses Indonesia and includes 10 Indonesian studies alongside international evidence, making findings highly applicable to Indonesian policy and practice. While the UK has different food systems and socioeconomic contexts, the mechanistic associations between dietary diversity and child growth outcomes are likely transferable; however, UK-specific evidence on complementary feeding practices and their nutritional impact would be needed to inform United Kingdom infant feeding guidance.
Key measures
Dietary diversity (and minimum dietary diversity measures), anthropometric outcomes (height, weight, length), stunting prevalence, linear growth, socioeconomic factors, maternal factors, cultural factors, and food-access factors
Outcomes reported
The review synthesized evidence on the association between dietary diversity during complementary feeding (ages 6–23 months) and nutritional status, including anthropometric outcomes, linear growth, and stunting prevalence. It examined both Indonesian and international studies to identify patterns and contextual factors influencing these associations.
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