European Journal of Pharmacology & Toxicology

A STRATEGY AND AWARENESS ON IMPROVING HEALTH OF LACTATING MOTHERS AND BREASTFEED CHILDREN: A REVIEW

Dayana Nicholas*1, Kenneth Nelson1, Samson P George2

dayanicholas@gmail.com

Infant and young child feeding is a key area to improve child survival and promote healthy growth and development. The first two years of a child's life are particularly important, as optimal nutrition during this period will lead to reduced morbidity and mortality, to reduced risk of chronic diseases and to overall better development. In fact, optimal breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices are so critical that they can save the lives of 1.5 million children under five every year. WHO and UNICEF recommendations for optimal infant and young child feeding are: early initiation of breastfeeding with one hour of birth; exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life; and the introduction of nutritionally adequate and safe complementary foods at six months together with continued breastfeeding up to two years and beyond. The health and nutritional status of an infant and its subsequent growth and development through childhood depend upon successful feeding practices right from birth. A sound knowledge and practical application of nutritional requirements must be the basis for the choice of infant foods. The socioeconomic status and education of the mother have also been known to influence infant feeding practices. This review article studied with 31 research articles which are related to the nutritional value of breast feeding. Gynaecologists, Family doctors, Pediatricians, Family Health Board should take a privilege to identify physical discomforts, health problems in mothers who is not able to care baby by lactating. Hence this can be easier to instruct and educate the mothers accordingly. Health nutritionist, Community pharmacists and Government hospitals should promote the practice of breastfeeding among mothers by providing post natal care guidance book, pamphlets, audiovisuals where they can improve their quality of life. Key words: Breast feeding: Mother; Nutritional value; Infant and child; Growth factor; Prenatal Education.