World Health Organization Revises Guidelines on Breastfeeding
The World Health Organization (WHO) has revised its guidelines on breastfeeding, recommending that infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life. This is a change from the previous recommendation of four to six months.
The new guidelines are based on a review of scientific evidence that shows that exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months provides optimal nutrition and health benefits for infants. These benefits include protection against diarrhea, respiratory infections, and other childhood illnesses. Breastfeeding also promotes healthy growth and development, and it can help to reduce the risk of obesity and chronic diseases later in life.
The WHO recommends that infants be introduced to solid foods at around six months of age, while continuing to breastfeed until they are at least two years old. Solid foods should be introduced gradually, and they should be age-appropriate and nutrient-rich.
The WHO’s new guidelines are in line with recommendations from other major health organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). These organizations all agree that exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is the best way to ensure the optimal health and development of infants.
