Researchers have discovered previously unknown breastfeeding patterns of an extinct early human species by studying their two-million-year-old teeth. This also provides insights into the evolution of human breastfeeding practices, say the Mount Sinai researchers working as part of an international team. Breastfeeding is a critical aspect of human development, and the duration of exclusive nursing and the timing of introducing solid food to the diet are also important determinants of health in human and other primate populations. Many aspects of nursing, however, remain poorly understood.
