1. When is the best time to breastfeed?

It is generally believed that the optimal duration of breastfeeding is between 6 months and 2 years. How long it is best to breastfeed also depends on the physical condition of the breastfeeding mother.

It is generally believed that the optimal weaning age in urban areas is 8 to 12 months old and can be extended to 12 to 18 months in rural areas. However, if the mother is not in good health and does not usually produce enough milk, early weaning can be done.

If the mother is in good health and the milk production is still in a strong state, or because the baby is frail and sick, weaning is harmful to the baby's health, and the weaning time can be appropriately postponed, but it should not exceed 2 years of age at the latest.

Also, the exact time of weaning is best in the spring or fall.

The World Health Organization strongly recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life. 6 months to 2 years or older, supplement with other foods while continuing to breastfeed.

The World Health Organization states that "breast milk is the best nutritional food for babies". Breast milk contains many immune components, more unsaturated fatty acids than cow's milk, and taurine, which promotes brain development in babies. Therefore, breastfeeding can be extended for a longer period of time, rather than the traditional belief that breast milk is no longer nutritious after six months.

2. When to stop breastfeeding?

The traditional way of weaning is anachronistic and a heartbreaking punishment for both mother and child. So, what is a reasonable and sensible way of weaning?

The timing and method of weaning depends on many factors, each mother and baby will experience weaning differently, and the method chosen will vary from person to person. If you are well prepared and both you and your baby are comfortable, the time is ripe for weaning and you can wean your baby very quickly.

If the mother has to travel for a period of time, it is likely that she will be completely weaned after a few days. If the mother stops pumping after going to work, the milk will also be weaned quickly during the day.

Most babies have a habit of feeding in the middle of the night and before going to bed at night. The most difficult times to wean your baby are bedtime and midnight feedings. You can wean your baby from the night's milk first and then the bedtime milk.

The best time for weaning is in spring and autumn when the weather is suitable. In a more comfortable temperature and environment, the baby can easily adapt to the changes brought about by weaning, and it will be easier for the baby to pass through this physiological and psychological transition period.

Weaning should be done gradually, with longer intervals between breastfeeds, and gradually increasing complementary foods, rather than weaning the baby all at once, to avoid psychological discomfort.

It usually takes from a week to a month, depending on the method of weaning and the foods consumed.