BREASTFEEDING IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

Abstract

The calculated protein and calorie requirements and nutritional status of intrauterine-growth-retarded infants of poor mothers in underdeveloped countries were compared with the estimated amounts of protein and calories supplied in the mother's milk and their nutritional status both before and during lactation. These mothers were only able to provide 69% of the infants' protein requirements at birth, falling to 51% at three months of age. 123% of calorie requirements were supplied at birth, falling to 55% at three months. Conversely, in terms of g protein per 100 kcal, 56% of requirements were met at birth, rising to 95% at three months—figures which reflect the decreasing protein requirement with age. Socioeconomic factors determine nutritional status in developing countries and it is the responsibility of governments to ensure the health and adequate nutrition of mothers and infants.