Abstract

Background Exclusive breastfeeding has been examined as a determinant factor of cardiorespiratory fitness in children and adolescents; however, previous research has reported certain gaps and controversial conclusions related to the real effect of breastfeeding on cardiorespiratory fitness. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the relationship between breastfeeding, in terms of duration and exclusivity, and cardiorespiratory fitness in schoolchildren and adolescents aged four to 18 years.