Optimizing Breastfeeding for Better Health Outcomes The Way Forward

Breastfeeding is the clinical gold standard for infant feeding and nutrition, with breast milk uniquely tailored to meet the health needs of a growing baby. However, breastfeeding seems to be under attack by the commercial influence of the baby food industry, supported at work places and in the hospitals where they come to deliver. Artificial baby milk formula cannot meet the gold standards of breast milk. Provisions of IMS Act exists but widespread awareness and effective enforcement is required. Various studies reveal the gaps in the provision and implementation of the laws and awareness programs and to suggest appropriate solutions. It, thus, becomes necessary to emphasize upon the provisions of IMS Act, 2003 and evidently bring forward the commercial influence of baby food industry. Review revealed that the provisions of IMS Act has been violated at various online and offline platforms. Strategies to optimise breastfeeding and overcome breastfeeding barriers in the country are recommended, including community health and education programmes and -˜baby friendly' hospital initiatives. Advocates of breastfeeding are needed at the national, community and family levels. In addition, more systematic research should be conducted to examine breastfeeding practices and the best strategies to promote breastfeeding in this country. Dr. Ritu Pradhan | Anupreet Kaur Sobti "Optimizing Breastfeeding for Better Health Outcomes: The Way Forward" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-5 , August 2021, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd45105.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/home-science/family-health/45105/optimizing-breastfeeding-for-better-health-outcomes-the-way-forward/dr-ritu-pradhan