Abstract:
xclusive breastfeeding (EBF)—giving infants only breast-milk (and medications, vitamins or oral rehydration solution (ORS) as needed) for the first 6 months of life—is effective in preventing deaths from diarrhoea, pneumonia and other leading causes of
child mortality1–4. Breast-milk has been characterized as a ‘personalized medicine’ for infants2 due to its nutritional properties, natural growth stimulators and tailored immune-protective properties,
which collectively contribute to infant growth, development and
survival5–8. Furthermore, evidence suggests long-term health benefits of breastfeeding, including reduced risks of cardiovascular
diseases and increased benefits to human capital in adulthood2,9,10.
The introduction of supplementary food and water during the first
6 months of life, particularly in settings lacking reliable access to
clean water, can expose infants to infections from a range of pathogens1,3. Along with the initiation of breastfeeding within the first
hour after birth and continued breastfeeding to 2 years, the World
Health Organization (WHO) considers EBF to be an optimal
breastfeeding practice11 and included it as a proven protective inter
