The more months a baby breastfeeds, the fewer excess pounds he or she will have as an older child and teen, according to a Harvard Medical School study. The results of the study have been duplicated in several other studies, including one at the University of Glasgow.
In light of the current increases in both child and adult obesity, this suggests one more good reason for breastfeeding – added to improving the child's immunity to infection and disease, reduced risk of high blood pressure, and greater intelligence.
Dramatic Rise in Obesity
Obesity has risen dramatically among children and adults. Overweight teens tend to have higher blood pressure and cholesterol and lower self esteem than do normal-weight teens. And on average, they fare less well in school, and earn less as young adults. They also are much more likely to grow into obese adults who face serious health consequences, such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. And, of course, there are the emotional problems that come from teasing, rejection, and poor self-image.
In the United States, fewer than 30 percent of babies are breastfed for at least six months. Children who are breastfed for six months or more have a 20 to 30 percent reduced risk of becoming obese children. From a personal as well as medical standpoint, that is significant.
The Harvard Study
Harvard researchers questioned more than 15,000 girls and boys, age 9 to 14, regarding a variety of weight and health factors. The mothers were also questioned. All mothers were part of the ongoing Nurses' Health Study II. In this study, 62 percent of the children were only or mostly breastfed for the first six months of life – a higher percentage than the national average.
The overweight and obesity rate in children who were not breastfed for at least six months were significantly higher than for those who were breastfed for at least six months. Obesity was defined as having a Body Mass Index greater than 95 percent of children of the same age and sex.
Recommendations
In general, experts recommend that breastfeeding continue for about a year whenever possible. This would be a practical, healthy, and economical way to improve child health and reduce child obesity. Always work closely with your medical team to determine the best approach for you and your baby.
With many mothers working, breastfeeding can pose social and logistical problems that need to be worked out ahead of time. But it's very possible – and very worthwhile – to do. |
