Einstein (São Paulo) (Jun 2005)
The role of maternal milk in the prevention of diseases
Abstract
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends theintroduction of solid foods at 4 to 6 months of age, exclusivebreastfeeding for approximately the first six months after birthand continued breastfeeding for the first year or longer if possible,with complementary foods and fluids because there are variousadvantages in adopting human milk in infant nutrition. The variousbenefits of breastfeeding for babies are extensively documentedin the scientific literature as well as the role of human milk inpreventing diseases in the short and long terms in the lives ofchildren. Some human milk components that provide significantprotection against numerous infections and chronic diseases laterin life will be reviewed.
