In developing countries, it is not uncommon for mothers to breastfeed a child for several years. The World Health Organization set out a Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding in 2003 which recommended that children should be breastfed "up to two years of age or beyond." Whilst it is easy to understand the benefits of continued breastfeeding in developing countries, are there any real benefits to mother or baby in Western countries where the mother decides to continue breastfeeding beyond six months?
Breastfeeding Offers the Best Nutrition
According to the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action, the average 6-8 month old breastfed baby will obtain around 70% of its energy needs from breastmilk, with this falling to 55% at 9-11 months and 40% at 12-23 months. Breastmilk is known to contain more calories and nutrients per ml than most other foods, and is much more superior nutritionally than baby rice or fruit purees commonly given as weaning foods, although these are beneficial when given as complimentary foods.
Breastmilk contains essentials such as proteins, minerals, vitamins and essential fatty acids, perfectly tailored to the needs of a growing baby. As the baby grows, the milk is able to alter its composition to fit in with the changing needs of the child. Studies in 2005 have shown that the milk of mothers feeding a child over the age of 12 months has substantially higher fat and energy levels.
Breastfeeding for Increased Immunity
The World Health Orgainization have stated that "a modest increase in breastfeeding rates could prevent up to 10% of children under five. Breastfeeding plays an essential and sometimes underestimated role in the treatment and prevention of childhood illness." It is recognised that breastmilk contains antibodies that protect the child from infection. When children are breastfed beyond the first year, they generally have fewer illnesses than non nursing children and when they do get ill, the illness tends to be of shorter duration.
Breastfeeding can also help to prevent a child from developing allergies. This is thought to be due to the fact that a breastfeeding baby is unlikely to be exposed to as many allergens in early life, such as those present in cow's milk. Breastfeeding also promotes the maturation of beneficial gut bacteria, which in turn, provide a barrier to potential allergens. Breastmilk also has natural anti inflammatory properties.
In conclusion, there are many benefits to breastfeeding beyond the first year. The key to success is getting the right level of support from peers and medical professionals. Continued breastfeeding will help a child to get the best level of nutrition and will strengthen the immune system, as well as having the emotional benefit of enhancing the mother-baby bond.
Louise Jones - I have always enjoyed writing as a hobby, but started writing reviews online in February 2010 for Dooyoo, and later Ciao. In the beginning ...
