Breastfeeding: The WHO recommandations
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life.
After this period, breastfeeding can continue for as long as you and your child wish—ideally up to two years of age or beyond—alongside an age-appropriate complementary diet.
Every mother-and-baby pair is unique: there is no “right” duration of breastfeeding, only the one that works best for you and your child.
From a nutritional perspective, a mother following a balanced diet can naturally meet the increased nutritional needs associated with breastfeeding. In specific situations, such as a vegan diet, vitamin B12 supplementation may be recommended (for the mother and/or the baby), based on advice from healthcare professionals.
References :
Agostoni C, Braegger C, Decsi T, Kolacek S, Koletzko B, et al. 2009. Breast-feeding: A Commentary by the ESPGHAN Committee on Nutrition: J. Pediatr. Gastroenterol. Nutr. 49(1):112–25
World Health Organisation, UNICEF. 2017. World Health Organization/Fonds des Nations Unies pour l’Enfance (2017). « Cibles mondiales de nutrition 2025: Note d’orientation sur l’allaitement au sein. »
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infant-and-young-child-feeding
