Lessons From the Past: A Brief History of the Influence of Social, Economic, and Scientific Factors on Infant Feeding

This paper is a historical review of the social, political, and economic factors that have influenced infant feeding. In addition, the paper traces the development of the scientific evidence used to support infant-feeding practices. The paper concludes with a discussion of current issues that have an impact on infant-feeding practices and provides suggestions for health care providers to consider when working with mothers.