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Association Between Breastfeeding and Obesity in Preschool Children
Ermioni Palaska1,2, Aikaterini Lykeridou1, Sofia Zyga2
1Midwifery Department, Faculty of Health and Caring Professions, University of West Attika, Egaleo, Athens, Greece.
Insights
Breastfeeding for over six months is linked to healthier weight in preschool children. This study found a significant association between longer breastfeeding duration and reduced rates of low weight, overweight, and obesity.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern.
- Breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits for infants, mothers, and society.
- Investigating factors influencing childhood weight, such as feeding practices, is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between the duration of breastfeeding and the weight status of preschool-aged children.
- To determine if longer breastfeeding periods are associated with a lower prevalence of overweight and obesity in early childhood.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 674 preschool children (aged 2-5) in South Athens.
- Parental questionnaires collected data on child's personal and body data, parenting, pregnancy, and lactation.
- Body Mass Index (BMI) Z-scores and percentiles were calculated and categorized to classify weight status (low weight, normal, overweight, obese).
- Statistical analyses included chi-square independence tests, Fisher's exact test, and Monte Carlo simulations.
Main Results:
- Children breastfed for over six months showed a higher proportion of normal weight compared to those breastfed for shorter durations.
- The incidence of low weight, overweight, and obesity was lower among children breastfed for more than six months.
- A statistically significant association was identified between breastfeeding duration and childhood obesity in children aged 2-5 years.
Conclusions:
- A significant statistical link exists between the duration of breastfeeding and body weight in preschool children.
- Exclusive breastfeeding for longer than six months positively influences a child's weight status, potentially mitigating obesity risks.
Introduction:
Childhood obesity is a significant problem nowadays, with breastfeeding being one of many factors responsible for this issue. Breastfeeding as a natural way of feeding infants has many benefits for the child, the mother, and society.
Aim:
The present study aimed to investigate the association between overweight children in preschool age and breastfeeding duration.
Methods:
The current study included 674 preschool children aged 2-5 who attended various municipal kindergartens in South Athens. Questionnaires were given to parents where they recorded the child's personal and body data, parenting, and questions about pregnancy and lactation. The effect of BMI on the duration of breastfeeding in children was examined by the chi-square independence test. Fisher's and Monte Carlo simulations were also used. For data processing, Z scores and percentiles BMI for the first, second until fifth year of the child were found and based on these values the following categorization was performed; for values below -2 as low weight, values from -2 to 1 as normal weight, from 2 to 3 as overweight and over 3 as obese children. The Corresponding categorization was based on the 3rd, 85th, 97th, and 99.9th percentage position.
Results:
The percentage of children at preschool age who have been breastfed for over six months and had normal weight was higher than those who breastfed below six months. Moreover, the proportion of children who were low weight, overweight and obese was lower in children who had been breastfed more than six months compared to those who breastfed for a shorter period. Additionally, a statistically significant difference was found for the effect of breastfeeding on childhood obesity in children aged 2 to 5 years.
Conclusion:
There is a statistical association between breastfeeding duration and body weight in preschool age. Breastfeeding for more than six months has a positive impact on the child's weight.
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