Breastfeeding for 6+ Months Lowers Cardiovascular Risk in Mothers: New Study
A recent study has found that breastfeeding for six months or longer can reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems in mothers for at least three years after giving birth. This surprising finding highlights the significant cardio-metabolic benefits for maternal health, especially for women who have experienced complicated pregnancies, as they are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) later in life.
The study, published in the International Breastfeeding Journal, revealed that women who breastfed their babies for a minimum of six months had lower blood pressure and body-weight recovery (BMI) for up to three years postpartum. These positive results were particularly evident in women who had experienced pregnancy complications, as they recorded lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels three years after giving birth.
According to Professor Claire Roberts, who heads the Pregnancy Health and Beyond research group at Flinders University, these findings are excellent news for new mothers who may be at risk of developing future cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The study highlights that breastfeeding can significantly improve cardio-metabolic risk factors in women, reducing their chances of developing these health issues down the line.
In addition to the benefits for mothers, breastfeeding also offers numerous advantages for babies, including improved neurological development and overall health. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life and continued breastfeeding for at least 12 months to promote a substantial reduction in chronic hypertension and diabetes among women.
The study monitored 280 women and their children between 2018 and 2021 to gather these insightful findings. Dr. Maleesa Pathirana from the University of Adelaide stated, We found that women who breastfeed for at least six months had significantly lower body mass index (BMI), lower blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and lower central blood pressure than those who did not breastfeed.
The researchers also discovered that women who had experienced major pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and gestational diabetes, benefited even more from breastfeeding. Dr. Pathirana explained, If women with at least one major pregnancy complication breastfeed for at least six months, they had significantly lower blood pressure, improved cholesterol profiles, and lower insulin levels compared to those who did not breastfeed for the recommended duration. These findings indicate an overall improvement in cardiovascular health.
The study’s authors are now urging further investigations into a larger sample size of women who breastfeed, compared to those who choose not to breastfeed. They also recommend implementing interventions that support breastfeeding in disadvantaged or low socioeconomic areas, especially for women who have experienced pregnancy complications. Such measures can help reduce their lifetime risk of cardiovascular disease.
In conclusion, this groundbreaking study highlights the long-term benefits of breastfeeding for mothers’ cardiovascular health. The research underscores the importance of breastfeeding for at least six months, as it can contribute to improved blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall cardiovascular well-being for up to three years postpartum. Encouraging and supporting breastfeeding, particularly in women with pregnancy complications, can potentially reduce their future risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
