Pregnant women can help reduce the risk of their children becoming obese and developing diabetes by breastfeeding them for at least six months, according to a new study by US researchers.
The long-term study, carried out at the Colorado School of Public Health, involved monitoring and analysing nearly 400 children (94 from diabetic mothers and 399 from mothers without diabetes) from birth until the age of 13.
The researchers focused on the impact of breastfeeding on the rise in BMI, which is an indicator of childhood obesity and a risk factor for diabetes .
They found that children of diabetic mothers who were breastfed for at least six months showed slower growth in their body mass index (BMI) as they got older, compared to those who were breast-fed for a shorter period. The findings were similar for kids born to non-diabetic mums.
Lead researcher Tessa Crume said: "Breastfeeding support represents an important clinical and public health strategy to reduce the risk of childhood obesity ."
She added "We can work with paediatricians, obstetricians and the public health community to give these women targeted support immediately following birth."
The research was published in the International Journal of Obesity .
Breastfeeding Lower Risk Of Childhood Obesity
Wed, 15 Feb 2012
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