Childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes are on the rise globally, and alarmingly, even very young children are now being diagnosed with these conditions. While we often blame poor diet and sedentary lifestyles behind the constant spike, experts are of the view that there’s another crucial factor that many parents may overlook: breastfeeding.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. After that, parents should start adding solid foods while continuing breastfeeding for up to two years or longer. Studies show that this early feeding choice can improve a child’s health for years, boosting their immunity and metabolism even in their teenage and adult years.
“Breastfeeding is not just nourishment, it is preventive medicine,” says Dr. Prachi Kathuria Gera, Consultant – Lactation at Manipal Hospital Varthur, Bengaluru. “The protective effects of breastfeeding go far beyond infancy, helping lower the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life,” she further explains.
How breastfeeding protects children from diseases
Breast milk provides exactly what a baby needs as they grow, both for nutrition and hormones. It contains bioactive compounds such as leptin, adiponectin, and ghrelin, hormones that play key roles in regulating hunger and satiety, helping to build healthy eating patterns from the start.
“Breastfed babies tend to have steadier growth patterns and better fat metabolism compared to formula-fed infants,” explains Dr. Gera. A 2024 meta-analysis of over 150 studies confirmed that babies who were breastfed for at least six months had a significantly lower risk of becoming overweight or developing type 2 diabetes later in life, even when genetic and socioeconomic risk factors were present.
Dr. Manasa G V, Associate Consultant – Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Manipal Hospital, Goa shares, “Breastfeeding is far more than nutrition. Nutrients in breast milk such as leptin and adiponectin regulate healthy weight gain while strengthening immunity. Formula-fed infants, however, face higher risks due to hormonal imbalances like elevated ghrelin. Hence breastfeeding only protect children from immediate infections but also gives them a healthier future.”
Also, breastfeeding helps develop a strong gut microbiota, the healthy bacteria in the digestive system that play a critical role in regulating weight, immunity, and even long-term metabolic health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also reveals that children who are breastfed are less likely to develop obesity and related health conditions as they grow older.
How breastfeeding is beneficial for mothers too
The advantages of breastfeeding aren’t limited to babies. “For mothers, breastfeeding supports postpartum recovery, lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes, and strengthens the emotional bond with the baby,” adds Dr. Gera.
Breastfeeding isn’t just about feeding a baby, it helps protect their health for life. With obesity and type 2 diabetes increasing, breastfeeding is the first step to protect them.
