The Role of Breastfeeding in the Prevention of Childhood Malnutrition

Abstract

Breastfeeding has an important role in the prevention of different forms of childhood malnutrition, including wasting, stunting, over- and underweight and micronutrient deficiencies. This chapter reviews research that demonstrates how improved breastfeeding rates have the potential to improve childhood nutrition, with associated impacts on infectious and noninfectious disease prevention. The unique composition of breastmilk, the importance of breastfeeding in infectious disease prevention, the iron status of breastfed infants, and breastfeeding's protective effect on overweight and obesity are discussed based on currently available research. Early and tailored dietary counseling is needed to improve maternal diets, which can affect the nutritional status of breastmilk. Promotion and support of breastfeeding are important to prevent childhood morbidity and mortality. A review of the literature reveals key factors shown to be effective in improving breastfeeding rates, especially including legislation to control the marketing of breastmilk substitutes. In conclusion, breastfeeding is shown to be the best natural resource to improve childhood nutrition throughout the world.

Effect of diversified meals only, or either enriched with Amaranthus tricolor and Moringa oleifera leaf powder or commercial micronutrient powder on prevention/treatment of anemia in Adivasi children, West Bengal, India

“…Similarly children suffering from severe anemia were more likely to attend a feeding program in Burkina Faso, than children without severe anemia [154], altogether indicating that being more vulnerable is associated with higher attendance, and not vice versa. Reverse causality has also been suggested in other studies on breastfeeding and nutritional status, hereby mothers tended to breastfeed longer if their child was small and/or seemed to be ill [155], [156]. Besides frequent child´s illness may have implied increased program attendance.…”

Prevalence, duration, and content of television advertisements for breast milk substitutes and commercially produced complementary foods in Phnom Penh, Cambodia and Dakar, Senegal

“…This illustrates the importance of wider adherence to the International Code of Marketing of Breast‐milk Substitutes and World Health Organization Guidance (World Health Organization et al, ). Countries and manufacturers must be responsible for compliance across international borders, where the impact of inappropriate marketing extends to areas where use of BMS can have severely detrimental effects on child health (Scherbaum & Srour, ). In the case of Cambodia, this study provides evidence which suggests that companies may not be complying with national provisions requiring government approval for BMS and CPCD television advertisements.…”

Wasting Prevention in under Five-Years-Old Children with Exclusive Breastfeeding

“…Breast milk also has bioactive factors which include cells, anti-infectious and antiinflammatory agents, growth factors, and prebiotics. Unlike infant formula that has a minimal range of composition, breast milk composition is dynamic and varies [33]. Also, breast milk contains Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) and Arachidonic Acid (ARA) that can stimulate the development of nerve, retinal and brain cells [34].…”