Abstract

PIP: Analysis of the dyadic nature (nutritional, psychological, and biological interaction between mother and infant with each affecting the other) and the economics of infant feeding strongly suggests the superiority of breastfeeding over artificial feeding, regardless of the socioeconomic status of societies. Universally, there are 3 main guidelines for scientifically guided biological infant feeding: 1) to feed the pregnant and lactating mothers with a mixed diet of locally available foods; 2) to breastfeed alone for 4 to 6 months, and 3) to introduce least cost weaning foods based on the concept of multimixes from 4 to 6 months onward, preferably prepared from locally available foods but with continuing lactation into the second year of life, particularly in poorer circumstances. Widespread increases in breastfeeding will protect some 10 million infants annually against marasmus and diarrheal diseases, some 1 million cases against infantile obesity and 100,000 cases against cow's milk allergy. The basic issue involved is the development of practical programs which would improve the pattern of breastfeeding or at least minimize its decline, and to optimize the quantity and quality of milk production, particularly by maternal feeding. This can be done by instituting changes in the emphasis in the education of health professionals, and in procedures at pediatric wards and maternity units in hospitals. The promotion and advertising of infant formulas, especially in poor areas, needs monitoring, and appropriate legislation and enforcement. Lactating mothers who are working should be provided with bonuses, creches, 'nursing pauses' in industry, and other methods which will encourage them to combine the roles of motherhood and salaried worker effectively. Interdisciplinary undertakings between economists, administrators and health professionals are needed in order to improve breastfeeding patterns on a community basis. Reappraisal of modern infant feeding practices should be based on modern scientific knowledge, awareness of successful traditional time-tested adaptation, and on man's ancient biological mammalian heritage.