Ancient Greek Children Breastfed Until Age Four, Study Finds
New research reveals that children in ancient Himera were typically weaned at 3.8 years of age.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Babies
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A recent study examining burial remains from the ancient Greek colony of Himera reveals that children were typically breastfed until nearly four years of age. These findings, published October 20, 2026, provide new insight into historical infant feeding practices between the 7th and 5th centuries B.C.
Why it matters
Understanding how ancient populations fed their infants helps researchers track the evolution of human development and nutritional transitions over centuries. These findings highlight a significant contrast to later Roman-era practices where weaning occurred much earlier.
Researchers analyzed nitrogen and carbon chemical traces in bone collagen from 58 children and adolescents. The study found that complete weaning occurred at an average age of 3.8 years, whereas later Roman-era remains from Isola Sacra indicate weaning at approximately 1.2 years.
The players
Soranus
An ancient physician and medical writer whose works document historical perspectives on infant care and weaning.
Galen
A prominent Roman-era physician and philosopher who documented medical practices and health recommendations.
The details
Scientists determined dietary transitions by measuring chemical markers preserved in bone collagen samples from individuals who lived between the 7th and 5th centuries B.C. The data suggests that while exclusive breastfeeding ended around 3 to 4 months of age, children continued to receive breast milk alongside other foods until reaching age four. Furthermore, children maintained a diet higher in plants and lower in animal proteins compared to adults until reaching approximately age 9 or 10.
Timeline
7th to 5th centuries B.C.: Timeframe when Himera functioned as a cultural hub.
2nd century A.D.: Period when medical writers Soranus and Galen recorded weaning recommendations.
October 20, 2026: Date the research study was published.
Health Landscape
This study positions historical infant nutrition in Himera against the documented practices at the Roman-era cemetery at Isola Sacra. It underscores how cultural traditions significantly dictated childhood development norms across ancient Mediterranean societies.
While historical weaning timelines reflect cultural and environmental circumstances, today's parents should consult pediatricians for current evidence-based guidance on infant nutrition. Understanding these historical patterns highlights how human development practices have long been shaped by local context.
The takeaway
Historical data shows that infant feeding practices have changed drastically over thousands of years based on culture and environment. For modern guidance on your child's specific nutritional needs, always discuss growth milestones and weaning plans with your pediatrician.
Further reading
For more on the evolution of early childhood nutrition and historical health practices, explore our section on Babies.
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