Breastfeeding duration and neurodevelopment: insights into autism spectrum disorders and weaning practices
1Department of Special Education, College of Education, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia. bhsaigh@uqu.edu.sa.
Insights
This study suggests a 21-month breastfeeding duration may help prevent autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and improve neurodevelopment. This approach integrates scientific evidence with traditional wisdom for optimal child development outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Public Health
Background:
- Breastfeeding is crucial for infant health, immunity, and neurodevelopment.
- Optimal breastfeeding duration remains a subject of scientific debate.
- Existing research lacks consensus on the link between breastfeeding duration and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between breastfeeding duration and ASD incidence.
- To identify an optimal weaning period for child development.
- To integrate scientific findings with Qur'anic teachings on breastfeeding.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current scientific studies on breastfeeding and neurodevelopment.
- Interpretation of Qur'anic verses related to infant feeding practices.
- Synthesis of evidence to propose an optimal breastfeeding duration.
Main Results:
- A breastfeeding duration of 21 months is proposed as optimal.
- Breastfeeding may play a preventive role in mitigating ASD symptoms.
- Potential mechanisms include immune regulation, microbiome diversity, and hormonal pathways.
Conclusions:
- The proposed 21-month duration balances breastfeeding benefits with potential risks.
- Breastfeeding may enhance neurodevelopment and potentially reduce ASD risk.
- Further research is needed on long-term breastfeeding impacts on ASD outcomes.
Abstract:
This paper examines the complex relationship between breastfeeding duration and the incidence of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), focusing on identifying the most beneficial weaning period and its subsequent effects on child development. Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its role in promoting early health, strengthening the immune system, and supporting neurodevelopment. However, the debate over its optimal duration persists. Integrating insights from current scientific studies with interpretations of Qur'anic teachings, this study advocates for a breastfeeding duration of 21 months. This duration balances the benefits of extended breastfeeding with potential risks associated with prolonged exposure, reflecting both ancient wisdom and contemporary evidence. Key findings suggest that breastfeeding may play a preventive role in mitigating ASD symptoms and enhancing neurodevelopment through mechanisms such as immune regulation, microbiome diversity, and hormonal pathways. These insights underline the need for further specialized research to explore the long-term impacts of breastfeeding on ASD-related outcomes.
