October 2018
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1 Citation
The objective of this study was to test a novel and low‐cost distribution method to provide a 21 micronutrient‐fortified beverage (Chispuditos ® ) to improve the nutritional status of children with a Length/Height‐for‐age Z‐score (HAZ) ≤−1, in rural southwest Guatemala. Community woman leaders from 9 villages were identified and trained to provide coached guidance on nutrition, caregiving, parenting and early learning opportunities. The distribution mechanism consisted of groups of ~30 mothers organized by the community leader that met on a monthly basis at a point of convenience. The woman leader guided discussion and practice of the topics mentioned above among the peer group. Duration of meetings was approximately 30 minutes, and mother‐child dyads received a 24‐day supply of Chispuditos and instructions on how to prepare. Participants provided 1 Guatamalan Quetzal ($0.13 USD) to cover the complete cost of the community leader service. A total of 290 children from 6–72 months of age completed 21 months of receiving the fortified atole. A cross‐sectional analysis showed a significant improvement in mean HAZ scores: from −2.34 (0.89SD) to −1.95 (1.09SD), (p<0.01) and a significant reduction in the prevalence of stunting (from 58.3% to 46.0%, p<0.001). In conclusion, this community‐based low‐cost distribution model along with the nutrition intervention appears to be effective in improving linear growth in stunted children from rural southwest Guatemala. Support or Funding Information The Mathile Institute for the Advancement of Human Nutrition