Breast feeding children for between three and six months can significantly reduce their risk of becoming obese by the age of nine.

This is according to a new report featured in the Journal of Social Science and Medicine, which used data from the Growing Up in Ireland study to look at the benefits of being fed naturally.

The research showed the later a youngster is weaned on to solid foods the slimmer the chance they will be overweight, with those breast-fed for three to six months 38 per cent less likely to pile on the pounds.

Being breast-fed for six months increased this figure to 51 per cent, with 20,000 children and their families monitored to collect the data.

Co-author of the study Professor Richard Layte said: "Our study suggests that early life nutrition may be a key issue for improving health and reducing obesity."

The research findings come after consultant paediatric endocrinologist at Tallaght Hospital and head of paediatrics at Trinity College Dr Edna Roche announced a proposal is being considered that would see children weighed on their first day of school.

Written by Donal Walsh

Comments