For the sake of their children's health, many new mothers choose to breastfeed. However, according to the latest research from Goldsmiths, University of London, breastfed children do not necessarily have higher IQs.
New Findings on Breastfeeding's Impact on Children's IQ (Public Health Network)
Scientists at Goldsmiths, University of London surveyed 11,000 two-year-old British non-identical twins who were breastfed and their IQ levels. The study indicates no evidence that breastfed children exhibit higher IQ as they grow older.
The study found that breastfeeding provided some benefit to the IQ of 2-year-old girls, but by age 16, their IQ scores were no higher than those of others.
Researchers stated that breastfeeding offers limited assistance to early childhood IQ development and cognitive growth from infancy through adolescence.
Dr. Sophie von Stumm, who led the study, stated that breastfeeding is not a core factor in boosting children's IQ. Other factors, such as family background and education, play significant roles.
She emphasized that breast milk helps strengthen a child's immune system. However, mothers who are unable or choose not to breastfeed should not feel guilty. "Bottle-feeding won't prevent your child from going to college later in life."