Breastfeeding reduces the risk of obesity in the future

Yes, with all the benefits of breastfeeding from immunity and positive effects on mental and physical health, there is a new benefit. Breastfeeding reduces the possibility of a child becoming obese in the future. A recent study conducted by the World Health Organization showed that children who are breastfed are less likely to be obese compared to those who are fed With milk powder, especially if breastfeeding continues for at least six months.

"Children who have never been breastfed are 30% more likely to be obese" than children who have been breastfed for at least six months, the study said, after following a sample of nearly 6 children aged 9 to 16 years in 22 European countries.

This study was published during the European Congress on Obesity, which runs until Wednesday in Glasgow.

The study authors said the findings should spur health authorities to "encourage breastfeeding" as part of their obesity prevention policies with better training for health professionals, stricter marketing controls for milk manufacturers and more protective legislation for breastfeeding mothers.

In another study published at the conference, the World Health Organization indicated that many European countries are struggling to reduce the level of childhood obesity despite current prevention policies.

The organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding until six months of age and continued “from six months to two years or more” supplemented by another diet.