manuscript data 10/20/25

We conducted a cross-sectional study among 198 adolescent mothers with children aged 6 to 23 months to identify existing food and nutrient gaps. Dietary intake was assessed using a 24-hour recall method and semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Chi-square test was used to compare different categories, and independent t-test was used to evaluate differences between means.
Our results reveal that 63% of children met the minimum acceptable diet, with gaps in the daily consumption of animal-source foods, fruits, and dark green leafy vegetables. Protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, thiamin, vitamin B12, folate, calcium, iron, and zinc intakes were inadequate. Consumption of sweetened beverages and unhealthy foods was 31.3% and 33.3%, respectively..