The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released a statement February, 7, 2011 stating that research now suggests that infants fed solid food before four months of age have an increased chance of developing obesity as they age. The research also gives mothers more incentive to breast feed as children who are exclusively breast fed for at least four months do not follow the obesity pattern of their formula-fed counterparts.
This news comes on the heels of a recent update by the News Desk from the Childhood Obesity website sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation which reported that Iowa has just received federal funds to combat childhood obesity in the state. In addition, other funding has been set aside in many other states as a result of President Obama’s Healthy, Hunger-Free Act of 2010. While these programs targeting obesity in children are much needed in these states, much of the focus has been strictly on school-age children. With the AAP’s latest announcement, more funding may be necessary to focus on our country’s smallest constituents.
Disease Risk Increases With Obesity
The risks of childhood obesity can affect children throughout their entire lives. Children who are above the normal BMI range for their weight and height measurements have increased risk for developing common physical ailments such as Type II Diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol and stroke. They are also more susceptible to mental disorders including eating disorders and depression.
Feeding Babies
Currently, the AAP recommends feeding babies a diet of strictly breast milk or formula or a combination of both. There are a number of research studies available through the American Academy of Pediatrics website that will outline the facts suggesting that the diet that is most beneficial for a baby’s health is one that is exclusively breast milk for at least four months. Babies who are formula fed can receive increased nutritional benefit by mixing formula with breast milk if the mother is pumping on a steady schedule.
Pediatrician Recommendations
Whenever new parents are concerned about the health or nutritional intake of their baby, they are advised to seek the medical advice of a licensed health care provider. Only a provider will be able to make diagnoses of illness related to nutritional deficiencies or obesity. While there is a plethora of information available on the internet on the signs and symptoms of nutritional deficiencies or obesity issues, only a licensed provider can offer treatments to handle a baby’s health status appropriately.
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