Compulsory breastfeeding the newborn for the first six months is a shared responsibility. Mothers have been urged to follow the national breastfeeding policy, according to the Department of Nutrition at the Ministry of Health. “Infants can be protected against many known diseases if they are breastfed for the first six months as the milk contains antibodies. Up to two years, mother’s milk is safe and clean food for babies. It also provides all the energy and nutrients infant needs for the first six months and later,” Dr Salima al Mamary, Director of the Nutrition Department, said.
According to a study conducted by the department, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding until the age of six months is only 23 per cent, despite all possible efforts.
The study, titled ‘National Nutrition Survey’ conducted by Nutrition Department in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Al Jisr Foundation, calls all mothers of children under six months old that it is necessary to adhere to exclusive breastfeeding.
According to Dr Salima, compulsory breastfeeding can also stop the trend of obesity and overweight among children under five.
@kabeeryousef
