Istanbul Gelisim University Faculty of Health Sciences: Faculty Bulletin (Volume: 2, Issue: 20 August 2022)

Abstract

Breastfeeding, which plays an essential role in the development of the first bond between mother and baby, has also critical importance for growth and development to be in ideal conditions. Asst. Prof. Nurten Elkin, Public Health Specialist of Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU), Faculty of Health Sciences, stated the following: “About 1.5 million children die annually from acute malnutrition. Worldwide, 20% of deaths under the age of 5 are preventable with appropriate nutritional interventions. Undernutrition in pregnant and infants accounts for more than 10% of the global burden of disease. Breast milk is an ideal and natural food that cannot be replaced in infant nutrition. It contains all the energy and nutrients necessary for the healthy growth and development of the baby. At the same time, breastfeeding provides many developmental, psychological, social and economic benefits to the baby and mother. Breast milk supports cognitive development in infants, reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome and reduces the risk of type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and stroke seen in later ages. Early breastfeeding has protective advantages that last up to six months after the baby is born. Therefore, breast milk alone for the first 6 months and breast milk supplemented with additional nutrients in the period up to 24 months is of great importance for infant nutrition and health