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Effect of exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding on infant growth and morbidity

T Khadivzadeh1, S Parsai

  • 1Educational Development Centre, Meshed University of Medical Sciences, Meshad, Islamic Republic of Iran.

Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal = La Revue De Sante De La Mediterranee Orientale = Al-Majallah Al-Sihhiyah Li-Sharq Al-Mutawassit
|October 11, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Exclusive breastfeeding for six months significantly reduces infant diarrhea and respiratory infections. This feeding pattern promotes better infant health outcomes compared to early introduction of complementary foods.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Nutrition Science

Background:

  • Infant feeding practices significantly impact child health and development.
  • Understanding the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding is crucial for public health initiatives.
  • Previous studies suggest varied outcomes regarding early complementary feeding.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the growth and morbidity of exclusively breastfed infants versus those receiving early complementary foods.
  • To assess the impact of feeding patterns on infant health in the first six months.
  • To provide evidence supporting optimal infant feeding guidelines.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort study involving 200 infants in the Islamic Republic of Iran (1997-1998).
  • Comparison between 100 exclusively breastfed infants and 100 infants receiving breast milk with complementary foods from 4-6 months.
  • Assessment of infant feeding patterns, weight, height, and morbidity (diarrhea, respiratory infections).

Main Results:

  • No significant differences in infant weight and height gain between 4 and 6 months were observed.
  • Exclusively breastfed infants showed significantly lower rates of diarrhea (11% vs. 27%).
  • Exclusively breastfed infants experienced fewer respiratory infections (23% vs. 35%).

Conclusions:

  • Exclusive breastfeeding up to six months of age is superior for infant health.
  • Exclusive breastfeeding significantly reduces the incidence of common infant illnesses like diarrhea and respiratory infections.
  • Findings support recommendations for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life.

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