Helpful Hints: Breastfeeding and Preventing Diabetes
Fact:
are almost twice as likely to be diagnosed with diabetes as non-Hispanic whites. In addition, Black Americans:
- Are more likely to suffer complications from diabetes, such as end-stage renal disease and lower extremity amputations.
- Adults are 80 percent more likely than non-Hispanic white adults to have been diagnosed with diabetes by a physician.
- In 2013, they were twice as likely as non-Hispanic whites to die from diabetes.
Tip:
Unlike Type 1 diabetes,
Factors that lower a person's risk are:
- Physical Activity
- Healthy Eating
- Keeping a Healthy Weight
- Breastfeeding your Baby
Benefit: Research studies have shown it is possible that colostrum may protect children from infection and inflammation that can trigger chronic conditions. Therefore, breastfeeding may mean fewer weight problems and less diabetes for the next generation.
Risk: Children who are not exclusively breastfed for 6 months are 40% more likely to develop Type 1 Diabetes.
Myth: A breastfeeding mother should space her feedings so that her breasts will have time to refill.
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Breastfeeding Resource: American Diabetes Association, 1701 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311; 1-(800) - DIABETES (800-342-2388), www.diabetes.org