Abstract
This study sought from a literature review to analyze the protective effect of exclusive breastfeeding on childhood obesity and the relationship that food introduction, infant formulas and early weaning have to the consolidation of this disease that has had significant increase in recent years. It was also discussed the factors that can collaborate to not breastfeeding exclusive as early return to work, use of pacifiers, postpartum depression and previous unpleasant experiences that associated with the early introduction of formulas and other foods that can alter the eating habits of infants, increasing the ingestion of calories, and that, depending on the composition can cause a tendency to generate nutritional disorders. In addition, the early introduction of food formula exposes the child to risks such as gastrointestinal changes, contamination during preparation, food allergies and increased body fat. The results show that, despite the low prevalence, there is a significant relationship between exclusive breastfeeding and protection against childhood obesity.