History of breastfeeding in children and adolescents with Diabetes Mellitus type 1

Abstract

The objectives were to identify children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus residents in Imperatriz-MA, to know the history of breastfeeding, the causes of early weaning and the consequent exposure to breast milk substitutes before the six months of life of these children or adolescents. This is a descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative study developed between July 2014 and July 2016 with parents or caregivers of 10 children and 40 adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The participants were interviewed in their homes with prior scheduling. The average age of the subjects was 13.1 years old, 64.0% were females, early weaning was evidenced for 34 individuals and there was the insertion of whole cow´s milk in the diet of 26 children besides juices, fruits, and other foods. It is concluded that exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months is a safe, economical and emotionally satisfying way to feed babies.