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Published on: February 15, 2018

Breastfeeding, growth and diarrhoea in rural Bangladesh children

M U Khan

    Human Nutrition. Clinical Nutrition
    |March 1, 1984
    PubMed

    Insights

    Exclusive breastfeeding did not significantly impact infant growth compared to supplementation. However, exclusively breastfed infants experienced more frequent and longer diarrheal episodes during their first year.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatrics
    • Nutrition Science
    • Public Health

    Background:

    • Breastfeeding is recognized for its protective effects against infant illnesses.
    • Understanding the impact of exclusive breastfeeding versus supplementation on infant health outcomes is crucial for public health recommendations.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To compare the growth patterns of exclusively breastfed infants with those receiving breast milk plus supplements.
    • To investigate differences in the incidence and duration of diarrheal illness between these two feeding groups.

    Main Methods:

    • A study involving 223 children in a rural setting.
    • Monthly anthropometric measurements up to 12 months, then quarterly.
    • Weekly maternal interviews to record feeding history and diarrheal illness data.

    Main Results:

    • No significant difference in average weight between exclusively breastfed infants and those receiving supplements.
    • Growth in weight and height paralleled the Harvard standard for both groups up to 4 months.
    • Exclusively breastfed infants had a higher incidence and longer duration of diarrhea during the first year.

    Conclusions:

    • While exclusive breastfeeding supports normal infant growth, supplementation may reduce the frequency and duration of diarrheal episodes in the first year.
    • Findings suggest a trade-off between growth and protection against common childhood illnesses like diarrhea.

    Keywords:
    Age FactorsAnthropometryAsiaBangladeshBiologyBody WeightBreast Feeding--beneficial effectsChildChild DevelopmentComparative StudiesDemographic FactorsDeveloping CountriesDiarrheaDiarrhea, InfantileDiseasesGastrointestinal EffectsGrowthHealthInfant NutritionMeasurementNutritionPhysiologyPopulationPopulation CharacteristicsResearch MethodologyRural PopulationSouthern AsiaStudiesSupplementary FeedingYouth

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