Breastfeeding Lowers Childhood Obesity Risk

It's long been known that breastfeeding is better than formula for strengthening children's immune systems, but research shows it also helps prevent childhood obesity. Based on a study of 32,000 Scottish children aged 39 and 42 months, research published in The Lancet (June 8, 2002) concluded that breastfed infants have a 30 per cent reduced risk of childhood obesity compared to formula-fed children. A new 10-year Canadian study is also underway that will examine if formula-fed infants are also at risk for type II diabetes. Meanwhile, researchers recommend breastfeeding for as long as possible, or for at least six to eight months before using formula.