When did WHO recommend exclusive breastfeeding?

WHO’s Recommendation on Exclusive Breastfeeding
The World Health Organization (WHO) has long championed the health benefits of breastfeeding, particularly emphasizing the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for infants. In its guidelines, WHO recommends that mothers exclusively breastfeed their infants for the first six months of life. This recommendation is grounded in extensive research demonstrating that breast milk provides all the essential nutrients an infant needs during this critical period for optimal growth, development, and health.
Historical Context and Guidelines
The WHO’s endorsement of exclusive breastfeeding for six months has evolved over the years, with significant milestones marking its establishment. The organization has consistently updated its guidelines based on emerging evidence regarding the health benefits of breastfeeding. The most recent comprehensive guidelines were reaffirmed in 2021, emphasizing that exclusive breastfeeding not only protects infants from common childhood illnesses such as diarrhea and pneumonia but also contributes to long-term health benefits.
In addition to the six-month exclusive breastfeeding recommendation, WHO advises that after this period, infants should begin receiving nutritious complementary foods while continuing to breastfeed until at least the age of two years or beyond. This dual approach aims to ensure that children receive adequate nutrition as they grow, while still benefiting from the protective effects of breast milk.
Global Impact and Health Promotion
The WHO’s guidelines have had a profound impact on global health policies and practices. By promoting exclusive breastfeeding, the organization aims to reduce infant mortality rates and improve overall child health outcomes. The emphasis on breastfeeding is part of a broader strategy to enhance maternal and child health worldwide, recognizing that breastfeeding is not only beneficial for infants but also supports maternal health.
In summary, the WHO’s recommendation for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life is a cornerstone of infant health policy, reflecting a commitment to improving health outcomes for mothers and children globally. This guidance continues to shape health practices and policies, reinforcing the critical role of breastfeeding in nurturing healthy generations.

What is the WHO recommendation for exclusive breastfeeding?

The World Health Organization recommends that babies be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life, followed by the introduction of nutritionally adequate and safe complementary foods, and with continued breastfeeding up to two years old or beyond.

WHO recommends breastfeeding until what age?

WHO and UNICEF recommend: early initiation of breastfeeding within 1 hour of birth; exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life; and. introduction of nutritionally-adequate and safe complementary (solid) foods at 6 months together with continued breastfeeding up to 2 years of age or beyond.

WHO recommended breastfeeding period?

The World Health Organization recommends that all babies be exclusively breastfed for 6 months, then gradually introduced to appropriate foods after 6 months while continuing to breastfeed for 2 years or beyond. Stopping breastfeeding is called weaning.

WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months?

In addition, the infant may also have received liquids (water and water-based drinks, fruit juice) ritual fluids and ORS, drops or syrups (vitamins, minerals and medicines). WHO and UNICEF recommend exclusively breastfeeding infants for the first 6 months of life.

Does the CDC recommend breastfeeding until 2?

How long should a mother breastfeed? Exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months is recommended. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends continued breastfeeding while introducing appropriate complementary foods until children are 12 months old or older.

WHO recommended the duration of exclusive breastfeeding?

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization also recommend exclusive breastfeeding for about the first 6 months, with continued breastfeeding along with introducing appropriate complementary foods for up to 2 years of age or longer.

Why does WHO recommend breastfeeding until 2?

Breastmilk provides all the energy and nutrients that the infant needs for the first months of life, and it continues to provide up to half or more of a child’s nutritional needs during the second half of the first year, and up to one third during the second year of life.

How long does the CDC recommend breastfeeding?

How long should infants be breastfed? Exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months is recommended. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends continued breastfeeding while introducing appropriate complementary foods until children are 12 months or older.

When is breast milk no longer beneficial?

How long to continue breastfeeding for is a personal decision for your family to make. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding (i.e. no other fluids or solids) for six months and then continued breastfeeding combined with solid foods for 2 years or as long as mother and baby desire.

Is World Breastfeeding Week 2024 closing the gap?

On World Breastfeeding Week 2024, lets us all commit to closing the gap, and ensuring breastfeeding support for all.