A recent podcast appearance has sparked a conversation about extended breastfeeding and the choices made by reality star and model Coco Austin. Austin, 46, wife of rapper Ice-T, has defended her decision to breastfeed her daughter Chanel until the age of six, emphasizing that it was primarily for emotional support rather than nutritional needs.
In an interview with Bunnie XO's "Dumb Blonde" podcast, Austin explained, "It wasn't about feeding her a meal. She could eat solid food by the time she was one. It was more about her wanting to be close to me."
She described the breastfeeding as a bedtime routine, a source of comfort for her daughter. "She wanted me there when she went to sleep. It was a comforting gesture."
Austin allowed Chanel, now nine, to decide when to stop breastfeeding, and she did so around the age of six. Austin's approach was to let her daughter lead the way, and she believed that Chanel would eventually recognize that it was unusual and stop on her own terms.
"She's not going to be 16 and still breastfeeding. She'll figure it out and stop when she's ready," Austin said.
But here's where it gets controversial... Austin pushed back against critics by highlighting that extended breastfeeding is more common in other parts of the world, particularly in Europe, where it's not seen as unusual.
"In Europe, it's normal to breastfeed until seven. It's nothing out of the ordinary there. We Americans tend to view it differently," she stated.
And this is the part most people miss... Austin's decision to breastfeed her daughter for an extended period is a personal choice, and she believes it's not a big deal. "It's just a boob," she added.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for about six months, followed by continued breastfeeding with complementary foods for at least two years and beyond as desired by both mother and child.
Ice-T has also defended his wife's parenting choice, noting that Chanel eats solid foods, including cheeseburgers, but simply enjoys the comfort of being close to her mom.
Austin said she cherishes every moment with her daughter and believes in following her instincts as a mother.
What do you think about extended breastfeeding? Is it a personal choice, or are there cultural and societal norms that should be considered? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
