Benefits of Breastfeeding For two years in Quran

New Guidelines Recommend Breastfeeding Until Age 2 or Longer

The American Academy of Pediatrics has updated its guidelines on breastfeeding for the first time in almost 10 years, now recommending that women breastfeed their children until the age of 2 or longer. This move aligns with the World Health Organization's recommendations and has sparked a variety of reactions from families.The new guidelines have been applauded by some, but not everyone is convinced. Some mothers have expressed concerns about the stress and pressure to breastfeed for an extended period. Others have raised questions about the feasibility of breastfeeding for two years, especially for working mothers or those with multiple children.Cad Amiah Pediatrics updated its guidelines on feeding for the first time in almost 10 years. It now aligns with the World Health Organization, which recommends a child is fed up to the age of 2 or longer. That move has been applauded by some, but not everyone.

Medical Experts Weigh In

Medical experts who see the new guidelines as a good goal emphasize the importance of breastfeeding for the health and development of children. They point out that breastfeeding has numerous benefits, including reducing the risk of infections, allergies, and chronic diseases.However, not all medical experts agree. Some have raised concerns about the lack of support and resources for mothers who want to breastfeed. They argue that the guidelines should focus on providing support and resources rather than setting a specific duration for breastfeeding.The African American Breastfeeding Network says people need to make sure they can achieve these guidelines and that policies and system changes are in place to support families who are at risk of not breastfeeding. They emphasize the importance of having resources and support in place to help families initiate and continue breastfeeding.Former American Academy of Pediatrics Wisconsin board member Dr. Margaret Hennessy sees these guidelines as a call to action to the community. She notes that the guidelines are not about forcing mothers to breastfeed but rather about providing support and resources to help them make informed choices.

Quranic Perspective

Interestingly, the Quran mentioned the importance of breastfeeding for two years over 1400 years ago. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 233, it states: "Mothers may nurse [i.e., breastfeed] their children two complete years for whoever wishes to complete the nursing [period]." This highlights the significance of breastfeeding in Islamic tradition and the importance of supporting mothers in their breastfeeding journey.

Allah says In Quran 2:233: 

Mothers may nurse [i.e., breastfeed] their children two complete years for whoever wishes to complete the nursing [period]. Upon the father is their [i.e., the mothers'] provision and their clothing according to what is acceptable. No person is charged with more than his capacity. No mother should be harmed through her child, and no father through his child. And upon the [father's] heir is [a duty] like that [of the father]. And if they both desire weaning through mutual consent from both of them and consultation, there is no blame upon either of them. And if you wish to have your children nursed by a substitute, there is no blame upon you as long as you give payment according to what is acceptable. And fear Allāh and know that Allāh is Seeing of what you do.