Mexico faces dual child nutrition crisis as obesity rises and breastfeeding rates lag

UNICEF warned that around 40% of children in Mexico are overweight or obese, while about 15% suffer from malnutrition. The agency highlighted the shift toward ultra‑processed foods and targeted digital advertising to minors as drivers of excess weight, and called for stronger regulation of child‑focused marketing and improved food systems.

In Mexico, exclusive breastfeeding remains low, with only about 34% of infants under six months receiving only breast milk, far short of the World Health Organization’s 50% target. Officials urged policies that support mothers, such as flexible work hours and dedicated lactation spaces, and announced practical initiatives including professional training courses, free lactation advice sessions, and community events to promote breastfeeding.

Both issues underscore broader challenges to child health in Mexico, prompting calls for coordinated public‑health actions and stricter oversight of food and advertising practices affecting children.