Why does WHO recommend breastfeeding until 2?

The WHO’s Recommendation on Breastfeeding Until Age Two
The World Health Organization (WHO) advocates for breastfeeding until the age of two for several compelling reasons, primarily centered around the health benefits for both infants and mothers. This recommendation is rooted in extensive research that highlights the nutritional, immunological, and emotional advantages of prolonged breastfeeding.
Nutritional Benefits
Breast milk is often referred to as “nature’s perfect food.” It provides essential nutrients that are crucial for a child’s growth and development. According to WHO guidelines, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months of life, as it offers optimal nutrition without the need for additional food or drink, including water. After this period, while solid foods are introduced, breast milk continues to play a vital role in a child’s diet. It remains a significant source of energy and nutrients, complementing the solid foods that are gradually introduced.
Immunological Advantages
One of the standout features of breast milk is its rich composition of antibodies and immune-boosting properties. Continued breastfeeding up to two years and beyond helps to protect children from infections and diseases. The immune factors present in breast milk can significantly reduce the risk of illnesses such as respiratory infections and gastrointestinal diseases. This is particularly important in the early years when a child’s immune system is still developing.
Emotional and Psychological Benefits
Beyond physical health, breastfeeding fosters a strong emotional bond between mother and child. The act of breastfeeding provides comfort and security, which can be crucial for a child’s emotional development. Skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding has been shown to enhance maternal-infant bonding, which is beneficial for both parties. This emotional connection can contribute to better mental health outcomes for both mothers and children.
Long-term Health Implications
The benefits of breastfeeding extend well into later life. Studies have indicated that children who are breastfed for longer periods may have a lower risk of developing chronic conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases as they grow older. For mothers, extended breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers, as well as other health benefits.
Conclusion
In summary, the WHO’s recommendation to breastfeed until the age of two is supported by a wealth of evidence highlighting the multifaceted benefits of breastfeeding. From providing essential nutrients and immune protection to fostering emotional bonds and promoting long-term health, breastfeeding is a critical component of infant and maternal health. As such, it is encouraged not only for the immediate benefits but also for the lasting positive impacts on health and well-being.

Why WHO recommends breastfeeding for 2 years?

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.

Why does who recommend breastfeeding for two years?

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.

Is breastfeeding recommended until 2?

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 AAP 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. This includes protection against diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancers of the breast and ovaries.

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.

How long does the who recommend breastfeeding?

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.

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.

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.

What percentage of moms breastfeed for 2 years?

While 71% of women continue to breastfeed their infant for at least one year, by two years of age, breastfeeding rates decline to 45%.

Why do people breastfeed until 2?

The benefits of breastfeeding are well established, promoting not only optimal growth and development of the infant, but also reducing the risk of illness and death from common infectious diseases (1).