EARLY-LIFE FEEDING PRACTICES AS A DETERMINANT OF LIPID METABOLISM IN CHILDREN: A PREVENTIVE PEDIATRIC PERSPECTIVE

Background: Early nutrition is a key determinant of metabolic programming and long-term health. The type of feeding during infancy may influence lipid metabolism and future cardiometabolic risk. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between infant feeding type and lipid metabolism indicators in children. Methods: A longitudinal observational study included 124 children aged 0–14 years. Participants were divided into four groups according to feeding type: exclusive breastfeeding (n=40), partial breastfeeding (n=30), mixed feeding (n=20), and artificial feeding (n=34). Lipid profile parameters including triglycerides, LDL, HDL, and total cholesterol were analyzed. Results: Artificially fed children demonstrated significantly higher triglyceride, LDL, and total cholesterol levels compared with exclusively breastfed children (p<0.05). HDL concentrations did not differ significantly between groups. Exclusive breastfeeding was associated with the most favorable metabolic profile. Conclusion: Feeding type during infancy significantly affects lipid metabolism. Exclusive breastfeeding provides long-term protection against dyslipidemia and may reduce future cardiovascular risk.