World Health Organization (WHO) - Infant and young child feeding

by Mammas Milk Bar

Nourishing Little Lives: The Power of Optimal Feeding for Babies

Every parent dreams of giving their child the best possible start in life—and nutrition is where it all begins. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) , every infant and child has the fundamental right to good nutrition under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Yet, millions of children around the world are missing out on this essential foundation. In fact, undernutrition is linked to 45% of child deaths globally, making proper feeding practices not just a personal choice but a matter of survival.

Let’s dive into why early childhood nutrition matters so much, how you can support your baby’s growth through optimal feeding, and what brands can do to champion healthier futures for families everywhere.

Key WHO and UNICEF Recommendations:

  1. Early initiation of breastfeeding: Begin within 1 hour of birth to reduce newborn mortality and infections.

  2. Exclusive breastfeeding: For the first 6 months of life to protect against gastrointestinal infections, undernutrition, and chronic diseases.

  3. Complementary feeding: Introduce safe, nutrient-rich solid foods at 6 months while continuing breastfeeding up to 2 years or beyond.

 

The Alarming Reality of Child Nutrition 

In 2022 alone:

  • 149 million children under five were stunted—meaning they weren’t growing as tall as they should be for their age.
  • 45 million children suffered from wasting, or being dangerously thin for their height.
  • Shockingly, 37 million children were overweight or obese, highlighting the dual burden of malnutrition.

These numbers paint a sobering picture. But here’s the good news: simple changes in how we feed our youngest ones can save lives and set them up for lifelong success.

 

Breastfeeding: A Superpower for Babies

 Did you know that breastfeeding isn’t just about bonding? It’s one of the most powerful tools we have to protect babies from illness and even death. Here’s why:

  • Exclusive breastfeeding saves lives : Globally, only 44% of infants aged 0–6 months are exclusively breastfed. If all babies received optimal breastfeeding during their first two years, over 820,000 lives could be saved annually .
  • Long-term benefits : Breastfed babies tend to perform better on intelligence tests, attend school more regularly, and earn higher incomes as adults. For moms, breastfeeding lowers the risk of ovarian and breast cancer and helps naturally space pregnancies—a win-win!

But let’s get real for a moment. Breastfeeding isn’t always easy. Many moms like you face challenges like lack of support at work, societal pressures, or simply needing guidance on how to make it work.

 

Complementary Feeding: What Happens After Six Months?

Around six months of age, babies need more than just breast milk to thrive. This is when complementary feeding comes into play. Unfortunately, many parents struggle to provide nutritious and safe foods during this critical stage. In some countries, fewer than 25% of infants aged 6–23 months meet the recommended dietary diversity and frequency guidelines.

So, what does “good” complementary feeding look like? Here are some tips:

  • continue frequent, on-demand breastfeeding until 2 years of age or beyond;
  • practise responsive feeding (for example, feed infants directly and assist older children. Feed slowly and patiently, encourage them to eat but do not force them, talk to the child and maintain eye contact);
  • practise good hygiene and proper food handling;
  • start at 6 months with small amounts of food and increase gradually as the child gets older;
  • gradually increase food consistency and variety;
  • increase the number of times that the child is fed: 2–3 meals per day for infants 6–8 months of age and 3–4 meals per day for infants 9–23 months of age, with 1–2 additional snacks as required;
  • use fortified complementary foods or vitamin-mineral supplements as needed; and
  • during illness, increase fluid intake including more breastfeeding, and offer soft, favorite foods.

During illnesses, breast milk becomes even more crucial. It provides comfort, hydration, and vital nutrients when little ones need them most.

 

Why Early Childhood Nutrition Matters for Everyone

Investing in proper infant and young child feeding doesn’t just benefit individual families—it boosts entire economies. Studies show that improving breastfeeding rates leads to:

  • Lower healthcare costs due to fewer sick kids.
  • Increased productivity as children grow into healthier, smarter adults.
  • Stronger communities built on the foundation of well-nourished citizens.

And guess what? Brands that align themselves with these values stand to gain big time. By creating products and services that support breastfeeding moms and educate caregivers about nutrition, companies can build trust, drive sales, and boost brand awareness.

 

How You Can Make a Difference

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or business owner, there are countless ways to contribute to healthier futures for our children:

    • Learn about exclusive breastfeeding and its incredible benefits.
    • Advocate for policies like paid maternity leave and workplace breastfeeding accommodations.
    • Choose brands that prioritize ethical practices and natural, organic ingredients

 

Let’s Build a Brighter Future Together

The first two years of a child’s life are a window of opportunity unlike any other. Proper nutrition during this time reduces the risk of chronic diseases, enhances cognitive development, and sets the stage for a lifetime of health and happiness.

As parents, caregivers, and advocates, we hold the power to transform these statistics.

So, even if you’re snuggling your newborn for that first feed or remember this: every drop of breast milk, every spoonful of nutritious food, and every act of support brings us closer to a world where every child thrives.

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