Breastfeeding and Childhood Obesity Prevention
Summary
Childhood obesity has risen sharply worldwide, posing long-term risks for metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease and psychosocial challenges. Breastfeeding represents a modifiable early-life intervention that may reduce the likelihood of excess weight gain. Proposed protective mechanisms include the regulation of appetite via bioactive factors, the promotion of a favourable gut microbiota and optimal metabolic programming during critical developmental windows. Observational data suggest a dose-response relationship, with longer duration and exclusivity of breastfeeding linked to lower body mass index in later childhood. Socioeconomic and cultural determinants influence breastfeeding practices, highlighting the need for equitable support measures. Integrating breastfeeding promotion into broader public-health strategies—alongside appropriate complementary feeding, physical activity and educational initiatives—can contribute to the prevention of childhood obesity on a global scale.
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Breastfeeding and Childhood Obesity Prevention publication trend
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Technical terms
Body mass index (BMI): a measure of weight relative to height used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity.
Exclusive breastfeeding: feeding an infant only breast milk, with no additional food or drink, for a specified period.
Odds ratio (OR): a statistical measure that quantifies the strength of association between an exposure and an outcome.
Cross-sectional study: an observational design that analyses data from a population at a single point in time.
References
- Association between breastfeeding duration and BMI, 2009–2018: a population-based study. Frontiers in Nutrition (2024).
- The association between breastfeeding and childhood obesity: a meta-analysis. BMC Public Health (2014).
- Exclusive Breastfeeding for at Least Four Months Is Associated with a Lower Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in Mothers and Their Children after 2–5 Years from Delivery. Nutrients (2022).
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