Mother Breastfeeding Her Six-Year-Old Child Defends Her Choice As “Natural”

A mother-of-two appeared on ITV's This Morning to talk about her decision to continue breastfeeding her six-year-old daughter. Denise Sumpter believes it is natural to breastfeed her daughter Belle when she's tired or ill and says she will continue to do so until the little girl asks her to stop. "I'll feed Belle as long as she asks," said 44-year-old Denise. "I don't know how long that will be. It will be the same with Beau. I don't think there's anything weird about it." 44-year-old Denise, who also has an 18-month-old son named Beau, maintains that she is giving Belle nutrition through her breast milk. ‘"It isn’t like cola, it’s nutrition but it’s also dynamic, it’s a living food" said Denise when she appeared  on the ITV show earlier this week. Denise pictured with Belle However, there have been mixed reactions to Denise's views with breastfeeding specialist Claire Byam-Cook arguing that Denise's choice is not natural or necessary. Clare, who appeared on the show alongside Denise, said: "The nutritional benefits at six are virtually negligible and also you say that you breastfeed your six-year-old when she's tired or needs comforting, so you're teaching your child to use food as a source of comfort".