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Influence Of Maternal Nutrition On The Exclusive Breastfeeding Of Infants
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background to the Study
Through the course of human history, the feeding of the new born has
puzzled man. A lot has been written about what is more beneficial for
the growth and wellbeing of the child, mostly outlining breastfeeding’s
pivotal role (Papastavrou, 2014). The World Health
Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first
six months of life, from six months onwards, continued breastfeeding
combined with complementary foods of good quality and in the right
quantity for two years is recommended. Exclusive breastfeeding
means that the child only receives breast milk, and if necessary the
addition of vitamins, minerals and medicine for the first six months of
life. The (WHO) recommendation applies to all countries and populations
regardless of economic status or developmental level.
Breastfeeding has many health benefits for both the mother and the
infant. Breast milk is not only a source of food but contains immune
related components and various biologically active substances that
contribute to efficient nutrient utilization and gives the child active
and passive protection against infections. Breast milk provides all of
the nutrients, vitamins and minerals an infant needs for growth for the
first six months of life. Optimal breastfeeding practices in the first
two years of life can have the single largest impact on child survival
of all preventive interventions. Breast feeding provides many health
benefits for the mother. These benefits includes more rapid recovery
from childbirth, decreased postpartum bleeding, delayed return to
fertility, reduced risk for breast and ovarian cancers, and less bladder
and other infections. In developing countries, and in
Nigeria for instance, breastfeeding can be the difference between life
and death for several reasons, including poor hygiene, prevalence of
malaria and lack of safe drinking water. An exclusively breastfed child
is less likely to die in the first six months than a non-exclusively
breastfed child. Adequate nutrition during early life is
critical for cognitive, mental and physical development. This period
ensures proper development and plays a significant role in lifelong
health outcomes. Inadequate nutrition during pregnancy and the first two
years of life can lead to irreversible limitation in the ability of a
child to achieve his or her full potential. These outcomes may include
delays mental development, reduced mental capacity, reduced school
performance and working capacity and overall increased susceptibility to
diseases and infections.
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ABSRACT - [ Total Page(s): 1 ]The researcher investigated the effects of maternal nutrition on the exclusive breastfeeding of infants in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. The purpose of the study was to find out the effects of maternal nutrition, socio-economic status, occupation, and perception on the exclusive breastfeeding of infants in Egor Local Government Area. To guide the study, four research questions were asked namely; what are the effects of maternal nutrition on the exclusive breastfeeding of infants? What ... Continue reading---
