Breastfeeding in Infancy Reduces Obesity Risk
pine Webmaster of Pineapple
2011/11/09 03:40
508 topics published
CNA November 8, 2011 Reporter Long Ruiyun
World Health Organization (WHO) expert Randa Saadeh visited Taiwan to participate in the "Asia-Pacific Conference on Mother-Baby Friendly Hospitals and Breastfeeding Promotion," emphasizing the importance of breastfeeding. She stated that breastfeeding reduces childhood obesity and strengthens immunity, recommending it for 6 months to 2 years.
WHO senior nutrition expert Saadeh shared insights on the global implementation of breastfeeding, the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) certification, and the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) system under the theme "Evidence-Based Practices and Global Developments of Baby-Friendly Hospitals." She highlighted that breast milk contains all essential nutrients, reducing the risk of infections, allergies, and mortality in newborns while boosting immunity.
Saadeh noted that studies confirm Baby-Friendly Hospitals create a better interactive environment for mothers and newborns, with higher breastfeeding rates compared to non-Baby-Friendly settings.
Additionally, skin-to-skin contact is crucial—it not only increases breastfeeding rates but also allows mothers to respond immediately when their baby is hungry. This early interaction influences successful breastfeeding for the next three months and reduces mortality rates before the age of five.
In the past, older generations often shared personal experiences and believed breastfeeding was unnecessary. Saadeh clarified that this is a misconception, stressing the importance of colostrum—the first milk produced within 24 hours after birth. Just 15 grams of colostrum can provide two days' worth of nutrition for a newborn.
Many question whether 15 grams of breast milk is sufficient. Saadeh explained that a newborn's stomach is very small, and 15 grams is adequate. Some caregivers mistakenly believe it's "not enough" and supplement with non-breast milk products, unnecessarily stretching the baby's stomach—a harmful practice.
She cited Japanese research showing higher breastfeeding rates within the first 24 hours after birth, which also reduces the risk of jaundice. For optimal health, infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months without additional products or water, as breast milk contains all necessary nutrients and hydration.
Saadeh emphasized that children who are not breastfed have a 22% higher risk of obesity compared to those who are. Obesity, in turn, is a root cause of cardiovascular diseases and chronic conditions.1001108
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