Breastfeeding protects against obesity and diabetes - even for children with a family history.

A new study, to be published in the October edition of the journal Diabetes Care, shows that breastfeeding is a powerful weapon against the development of obesity and diabetes. 

The study found that children who are breastfed are less likely to become obese and develop diabetes - even if their mothers suffer from those conditions.

In an article published online today, the study's lead author noted:

We found a substantial benefit to breastfeeding for all children, regardless of their mother's weight or health status. For children at higher risk for diabetes or obesity because of their family history, breastfeeding may play a critical role in helping to reduce the risk of excessive weight gain. Obviously, other factors are important as well, such as continued good nutrition and regular physical activity. But breastfeeding can get them started down a healthy track in life.

Earlier research has shown the breastfeeding lowers mothers' risk for obesity and Type II diabetes, too.

I've recently worked with several mothers who chose to breastfeed in part because of a family history of obesity and diabetes.  It's great to see new evidence that breastfeeding can break this cycle!