Why does the WHO recommend breastfeeding for 2 years?

The WHO’s Recommendation for Breastfeeding Up to Two Years
The World Health Organization (WHO) advocates for breastfeeding for up to two years or beyond, emphasizing its critical role in the health and development of infants and young children. This recommendation is rooted in a wealth of scientific evidence highlighting the numerous benefits of breastfeeding, both for the child and the mother.
Nutritional Foundation in Early Life
Breastfeeding is particularly vital during the first six months of life, where it is recommended that infants be exclusively breastfed. This means that breast milk alone provides all the necessary nutrients and hydration a baby needs during this period, without the need for any additional food or water. After six months, as infants begin to require more diverse nutrition, the WHO suggests introducing complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding. This approach ensures that children receive adequate nutrition tailored to their evolving needs.
Health Benefits for Children
The advantages of extended breastfeeding are manifold. Research indicates that breastfeeding for two years or longer can significantly enhance a child’s health outcomes. It provides essential nutrients that support optimal growth and development, while also offering protection against common childhood illnesses. For instance, breastfed children have a lower risk of infections, including respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases, and experience better overall survival rates during their early years. Additionally, breastfeeding has been linked to a reduced risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Cultural Context and Global Practices
Globally, the average age for weaning varies, with many cultures practicing natural weaning between the ages of two and four. This cultural perspective aligns with WHO’s recommendations, which recognize that extended breastfeeding is a common practice in many parts of the world. The organization underscores that there is no universally “right” age to stop breastfeeding; rather, longer durations of breastfeeding correlate with increased health benefits for both mother and child.
Maternal Health Benefits
The benefits of breastfeeding extend beyond the child. Mothers who breastfeed for extended periods experience various health advantages, including a decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancers, as well as lower rates of postpartum depression and chronic conditions such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes. This dual benefit underscores the importance of supporting breastfeeding practices not only for the sake of child health but also for maternal well-being.
Conclusion
In summary, the WHO’s recommendation to breastfeed for up to two years or beyond is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of the nutritional, health, and psychological benefits associated with breastfeeding. By promoting this practice, the WHO aims to foster healthier generations and support mothers in their vital role in nurturing their children.

Why not to breastfeed after 2 years?

Most experts agree that breastfeeding through the first year of life is most beneficial to your baby. After that, babies often lose interest in breastfeeding because they are becoming more mobile. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding for the first 2 years of life.

Why does AAP recommend breastfeeding until 2?

There are continued benefits from breastfeeding beyond 1 year, and up to 2 years especially for the breastfeeding parent’s health. This includes protection against diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancers of the breast and ovaries.

Why did AAP change breastfeeding?

The reason for this change, according to the AAP, is because of the evidence of continued benefits to breastfeeding past 12 months, especially for breastfeeding parents. For example, breastfeeding for a longer duration lowers the risk of ovarian and breast cancer, diabetes, and hypertension.

Who guidelines breastfeeding 2 years?

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.

At what point is breastfeeding no longer beneficial?

Breastmilk or infant formula should be your baby’s main source of nutrition for around the first year of life. Health professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with a gradual introduction of appropriate foods in the second 6 months and ongoing breastfeeding for 2 years or beyond.

Is it a sin to breastfeed after 2 years?

as for the question whether a mother can breastfeed past the two years, the answer is: there is nothing in the sources to indicate that it is wrong to do so. So, you are free to do so if you deem it conducive to the wellbeing of your child.

Why do they recommend breastfeeding for 2 years?

“There are continued benefits from breastfeeding beyond 1 year, and up to 2 years, especially for the breastfeeding parent’s health,” says the AAP. “This includes protection against diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancers of the breast and ovaries.”

What happens when you stop breastfeeding after 2 years?

Once you stop breastfeeding you may find that your breasts look and feel very empty. The size of the breasts will likely return to your pre-pregnancy size but may look quite different. The fatty part of your breast will come back over time to make the breasts look fuller and plumper again.

At what age is breastfeeding no longer beneficial?

Breastmilk or infant formula should be your baby’s main source of nutrition for around the first year of life. Health professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with a gradual introduction of appropriate foods in the second 6 months and ongoing breastfeeding for 2 years or beyond.

Is it healthy to breastfeed until 2 years?

AAP recommends that moms breastfeed exclusively for the baby’s first six months and introduce other appropriate foods at that point. Moms can continue breastfeeding until the child turns 2 or even beyond if desired.