Difference in Body Weight of Babies With Versus Without Exclusive Breastfeeding

Abstract

The weight of babies differs. When babies are aged 0-6 months, their weight increases every week by about 140-200 grams. The purpose of this study was to compare the weight of babies who received exclusive breastfeeding vs. those without exclusive breastfeeding. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study with a sample of 70 babies divided into two groups of 35 each. Weight data were collected from weighing records and Cards Towards Health, while categorization of exclusive or non-exclusive breastfeeding was determined based on interviews. Data analysis was carried out using the independent t-test. The results of the study found that the average weight of babies who were given exclusive breastfeeding was 7022.86 grams with a standard deviation of 1321.78 grams, while the average weight of infants fed formula was 5668.57 with a standard deviation of 1335.44 grams (p < 0.05). Therefore, there was a significant difference in the average weight of babies given exclusive breastfeeding compared with those without. So, it is recommended for every mother to provide exclusive breastfeeding, and for health workers to promote this. Future research should examine additional variables. Keywords: exclusive breastfeeding, weight