Exclusive Breastfeeding Coverage in 20 Provinces Still Below National Average

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is the best nutrition for newborns up to six months of age. Breast milk is a living fluid because it contains white blood cells, immune substances, enzymes, hormones, and proteins suitable for infants.

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) recorded that the percentage of exclusive breastfeeding for infants aged 0-5 months was 71.58% in 2021. This figure shows an improvement from the previous year, which was 69.62%.

However, most provinces still have exclusive breastfeeding rates below the national average. Gorontalo is recorded as the province with the lowest percentage, at only 52.75%. This is followed by Central Kalimantan and North Sumatra at 55.98% and 57.83%, respectively.

The percentage of exclusive breastfeeding in West Papua is reported to be 58.77%. Meanwhile, in the Riau Islands, it is 58.84%. DKI Jakarta is also a province with a percentage below the national average, at 65.63%.

Exclusive breastfeeding during infancy can reduce the risk of stunting. In fact, on National Nutrition Day today, January 25, 2022, the government is focusing on preventing stunting and obesity.

Breast milk contains fats and proteins that are essential for the physical growth of infants. Antibodies in breast milk can also improve the baby's immunity, making them less susceptible to illness.

(Read More: Indonesia's Prevalence of Stunting in Toddlers is the Second Highest in Southeast Asia)