Abstract
Background. The Prophet (PBUH) said, "There is no milk better for an infant than maternal milk." Research confirms that breast milk is a dynamic fluid, with its composition changing throughout the breastfeeding period to provide essential nutrients for the infant’s growth and development, while also protecting against diseases. Increased physical contact enhances the benefits for both mother and infant, playing a crucial role in the child’s physical, psychological, and socio-emotional development.
Methods. This review study aims to explore the significance of breastfeeding based on a search in Holy Quran, authentic Hadith and results of some scientific studies, using the following keywords.
Results. Verses 233 of Surah Al-Baqarah and 14 of Surah Luqman emphasize the two-year duration of breastfeeding. The emotional bond between mother and infant not only shapes the child’s personality but also enhances immune function, neural development, and IQ, while reducing the risk of obesity and metabolic diseases in adulthood. Additionally, the personality of the nursing mother plays a crucial role in the infant's physical and mental well-being.
Conclusion. The present study showed that the verses of the Holy Quran and noble Hadiths emphasize not only the importance of breastfeeding and its duration but also the proper breastfeeding technique, methods to increase milk supply, and the selection of an appropriate mother or wet nurse. Scientific research confirms these principles, showing that proper and complete breastfeeding, combined with a positive maternal attitude, plays a crucial role in the child's physical, mental, and emotional development, while preventing future physical and psychological illnesses.