WHO and UNICEF recommend breastfeeding for first 6 years of life?

WHO and UNICEF’s Recommendations on Breastfeeding
In a world where infant nutrition is paramount for healthy growth and development, the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF stand united in their advocacy for breastfeeding. Their guidelines emphasize that exclusive breastfeeding is crucial for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods up to two years or beyond. This approach not only supports the physical health of infants but also fosters emotional bonding between mother and child.
The Importance of Exclusive Breastfeeding
According to WHO and UNICEF, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months means that infants should receive no other foods or liquids, not even water. This practice is vital as breast milk provides all the necessary nutrients, antibodies, and energy that infants need during this critical period. The recommendations highlight that virtually all mothers can breastfeed successfully, provided they receive the right information and support from their families and healthcare systems.
Benefits Beyond Nutrition
The benefits of breastfeeding extend far beyond mere nutrition. Breastfeeding has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of infections and chronic conditions in infants, such as obesity and diabetes later in life. Moreover, it contributes to the mother’s health by reducing the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, and it promotes a quicker recovery post-delivery. The emotional and psychological benefits are equally significant, as breastfeeding fosters a unique bond between mother and child, enhancing the infant’s emotional security.
Global Initiatives and Support
Recognizing the challenges many mothers face, WHO and UNICEF have launched initiatives aimed at increasing support for breastfeeding in health facilities. Their ten-step guidance for maternity and newborn services is designed to create an environment that encourages and facilitates breastfeeding. This includes training healthcare workers to provide accurate information and support to mothers, ensuring that they can initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth.
The Call to Action
As the global community continues to grapple with various health challenges, the call for increased breastfeeding support is more urgent than ever. WHO and UNICEF’s recommendations serve as a clarion call for governments, healthcare providers, and communities to prioritize breastfeeding as a fundamental aspect of child health and development. By fostering an environment that supports breastfeeding, we can significantly improve child survival rates and promote healthier futures for generations to come.
In conclusion, the WHO and UNICEF’s endorsement of breastfeeding for the first six years of life is not just a guideline; it is a commitment to nurturing the next generation. By ensuring that mothers have the necessary support and resources, we can help every child thrive and reach their full potential.

Can you still breastfeed a 5 year old?

Breastfeeding beyond babyhood is normal
You may worry that if you don’t initiate an end to breastfeeding, your child will ‘nurse forever’. But children outgrow breastfeeding on their own, just as they outgrow other toddler behaviours.

What are the current national recommendations for 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.

How long does the CDC recommend to breastfeed?

12 months
The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that infants be exclusively breastfed for about the first 6 months. Then, continue breastfeeding until your child is 12 months or older while introducing appropriate complementary foods.

What is the UNICEF breastfeeding policy?

Initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour of life. Exclusive breastfeeding, without any additional food or fluids, not even water, for the first six months. Thereafter children should receive complementary foods with continued breastfeeding up to 2 years of age or beyond.

WHO recommended breastfeeding duration?

WHO Recommendations. Infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life to achieve optimal growth, development and health.

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.

What is the ideal length to breastfeed?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding up to 2 years or more. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that moms feed their babies only breastmilk for the first six months. Then they say to keep breastfeeding for at least one year.

What countries breastfeed the longest?

Guinea-Bissau. In Guinea-Bissau, the average length of breastfeeding is 22.6 months.

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.

What is the current recommendation for breastfeeding by WHO and UNICEF?

WHO and UNICEF recommend that children initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth and be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life – meaning no other foods or liquids are provided, including water. Infants should be breastfed on demand – that is as often as the child wants, day and night.