Previous studies have shown that babies who are breast-fed are less likely to be overweight later in life. The researchers wanted to see if this was true among babies whose mothers had weight problems or diabetes.
Who was studied?
More than 15,000 children (9–14 years of age) from the Growing Up Today Study.
How was the study done?
The mothers provided information on whether they had diabetes, were overweight or obese, or breast-fed their children. The children were categorized as being normal weight, overweight, or obese according to the definitions of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
What did the researchers find?
The study found that breast-fed babies are less likely to become obese, even if the mother is obese or has diabetes.
What are the implications of the study?
For children at a higher risk for diabetes or obesity because of their family history, breast-feeding may play a critical role in helping to lower the risk of excessive weight gain.
