Breastfeeding in China

Breastfeeding is the optimal way of providing infants and growing babies with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development.  Breastmilk contains antibodies to help protect infants from common childhood diseases, and breastfeeding also has long term positive effects for the child and the mother.

WHO recommends breastfeeding within the first hour of a child’s life, exclusive breastfeeding on demand without supplemental formula, food or water, for the first six months of the infants life, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years old or beyond.

Virtually all mothers can breastfeed, provided they have accurate information and the support of their family, the health care system and society at large.