New research finds link between childhood obesity and early infant feeding
New research, based on a study of infants over a 10-year period, has uncovered a link between childhood obesity and early infant feeding — with 82 per cent of mothers in southwest Sydney introducing solids or formula within the first four months.
New research from Western Sydney University has uncovered a link between childhood obesity and early infant feeding.
The findings, based on a 10-year study of 346 infants from Sydney’s southwest, found those who were introduced to formula and solid foods within the first four months could be twice as likely to develop childhood obesity.
The study, led by WSU Translational Health Research Institute’s Haider Mannan and published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, tracked the health and weight of the infants over 10 years.
Dr Mannan said the research showed the early introduction of formula and solids was “quite common” in southwest Sydney — which has the highest rate of childhood obesity in Australia — with 82 per cent of mothers introducing solids or formula to their infants within the first four months.
“What our study has shown is that, in terms of infant feeding patterns, the first four months of life poses the greatest risk for the development of obesity later in childhood,” Dr Mannan said.
“We recommend continued exclusive breastfeeding for four to six months and not over six months as it may result in mothers exclusively breastfeeding, for example, for nine months which is not recommended based on latest research.”
The World Health Organisation recommends recommends exclusive breastfeeding up to six months of age, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond.
Connells Point mum Jessica Nash, 34, has been exclusively feeding her five-month-old daughter Marlowe and said it was a decision partly based on practicality and convenience with a two-year-old son to care for as well.
“She’s a very easy baby and as far as our journey with breastfeeding, it’s kind of been a breeze because I know obviously a lot of women aren’t that lucky,” she said.
“You’re aware of all the recommendations but for me it was more a case of that’s what works.”
Ms Nash, who is currently receiving support from parenting service provider and charity Karitane, said she had just started Marlowe, who is six months next week, on solids based on a paediatrician’s advice.
“She’s showing all the signs of being ready,” she said.
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While recognising that some mothers are unable to continue breastfeeding in the first four months, the study highlights the importance of educating parents on when to introduce solids and formula to their infants.
Dr Mannan said it could take several decades for childhood obesity rates in the region to normalise.
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