Babies Off Breast Milk Too Soon

Almost three quarters of new mothers in the US breast feed their babies, but they are switching to formula too soon, say federal health officials. Only 30% are sticking to breast milk alone at three months, and only 11% at six months, a new survey shows. Breast milk
protects infants against diseases, eczema, and childhood obesity.

Ideally, moms should feed their infants breast milk for the first six months, health officials say. The CDC survey, from 2004, showed initial breast feeding at a new high, at 74%, up from 71% in 2001. The lowest rate of breast feeding is among black women and unmarried, poor, rural, and teen moms. (More children stories.)