Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 1, 2026
09:02
Breast Milk Enhances Growth of Enteroids: An Ex Vivo Model of Cell Proliferation
Published on: February 15, 2018
Breast feeding and the older infant
1MRC Dunn Nutrition Unit, Cambridge, UK.
Acta Paediatrica Scandinavica. Supplement
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Continuing breastfeeding for up to two years in developing regions offers significant benefits, including nutrient supply and disease protection. This practice shows little negative impact on child growth, especially when supplemented with adequate solid foods.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Nutrition
Background:
- The transition to solid foods marks a critical period for infant nutrition and health.
- Understanding the impact of continued breastfeeding alongside complementary feeding is essential for global child health strategies.
- Existing evidence on prolonged partial breastfeeding in industrialized nations shows minimal effects on growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the benefits and drawbacks of continuing breastfeeding for older infants after solid food introduction.
- To evaluate the influence of prolonged partial breastfeeding on child health and development in diverse socioeconomic settings.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature on breastfeeding practices and infant outcomes.
- Analysis of evidence from both industrialized and developing countries.
- Examination of nutritional, immunological, and maternal health aspects.
Main Results:
- In developing regions, continued breastfeeding for 1-2 years post-solids introduction provides substantial benefits: nutrient provision, protective agents, and extended maternal infertility.
- Partial breastfeeding after six months is linked to decreased infectious disease severity, particularly in malnourished infants.
- No evidence suggests partial breastfeeding causes poor growth performance.
Conclusions:
- Breastfeeding for the first two years, complemented by adequate other foods, is strongly recommended in developing areas.
- Prolonged partial breastfeeding offers significant advantages in resource-limited settings, improving child health and maternal well-being.
- Targeted breastfeeding support is crucial for vulnerable populations in the developing world.
Keywords:
BiologyBreast Feeding--beneficial effectsChild DevelopmentChild HealthDeveloped CountriesDeveloping CountriesFamily PlanningFamily Planning, Behavioral MethodsGrowthHealthHuman Milk--beneficial effectsInfant NutritionLactationLactation, ProlongedLiterature ReviewMaternal PhysiologyNutritionPhysiologyMore Related Videos
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