The human weaning process.

Abstract

The weaning process in relation to the nutritional adequacy of human lactation is reviewed. Current trends in breast-feeding, both in industrialized countries and the developing world, are considered, as well as associated changes in weaning practices. Consideration is also given to infant growth patterns in the Western world and how these are being influenced by current dietary practices. The nutritional requirements of babies during the first year of life are discussed, and recent concepts indicating that current estimates might be in excess of physiologic needs are introduced. These theories are of fundamental practical importance in terms of defining the length of time that exclusive breast-feeding remains adequate and determining when the introduction of complementary foods becomes necessary on nutritional grounds. It is emphasized that the weaning process is naturally a lengthy one, lasting many months rather than a few weeks, and that the provision of additional foods need not inhibit a mother's capacity for lactation as long as these feeds are administered in the correct fashion.