Exclusive Breastfeeding Recommendations Extended: AAP Updates Guidelines
Extended Support for Breastfeeding: AAP's Revised Policy
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has updated its breastfeeding recommendations, extending its support for exclusive breastfeeding for a greater duration.
Updated AAP Breastfeeding Guidelines
Under the new policy, the AAP now supports continued breastfeeding until two years or beyond. This recommendation aligns with the World Health Organization's guidelines, which advocate for continued breastfeeding up to two years of age or beyond.
The AAP's previous guidelines recommended exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding for at least one year.
Evidence-Based Benefits of Breastfeeding
The AAP's updated recommendations are based on a wealth of scientific evidence supporting the numerous benefits of breastfeeding, both for infants and mothers. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months has been shown to protect infants against a wide range of diseases, including respiratory infections, ear infections, and diarrhea.
Long-term benefits of breastfeeding include reduced risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and allergies. It also promotes cognitive development and enhances the bond between mother and child.
Exclusive Breastfeeding for the First Six Months
The AAP continues to strongly recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, as it provides the optimal nutritional and immunological benefits for infants.
Exclusive breastfeeding means that no other foods or liquids, including water, are given to the infant except for breast milk.
Continued Breastfeeding Beyond Six Months
After six months, the AAP encourages mothers to continue breastfeeding while gradually introducing solid foods into the infant's diet. Breast milk should continue to be the primary source of nutrition until at least one year of age.
The AAP's updated breastfeeding recommendations emphasize the importance of supporting mothers in their breastfeeding journey and providing them with the information and resources they need to make informed decisions about feeding their infants.
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