New research published in The Journal of Physiology reveals the importance of breastfeeding in the prevention of diabetes.
Led by researcher, Patricia Lisboa from Rio de Janeiro State University, the study, which looked at health outcomes associated with early weaning of rat pups, showed that early weaning is associated with increased insulin secretion in rats.
This increased insulin secretion indicates the rats that are weaned early might be more susceptible to Type 2 Diabetes as increased insulin secretion is indicative of the development of insulin resistance and is one of the indicators of diabetes.
“There are many causes of Type 2 Diabetes, but not breastfeeding for long enough, is one we can guard against,” said Ms Lisboa.
“Understanding the increased susceptibility to Type 2 Diabetes as a result of early weaning will help us develop the best public health guidance.”
The World Health Organisation recommends breastfeeding as the sole source of nutrition until six months of age.
Click here to read the study.
