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Health Benefits of Breastfeeding

Benefits for Baby

Colostrum—the creamy-yellow substance found in the breasts during pregnancy and for a few days after a baby's birth (but before the mature milk)—is the perfect starter food for babies. Colostrum provides a baby with an unmatched immunity against bacteria and viruses, and acts as a natural laxative for clearing a baby's intestine, thus decreasing chances of jaundice.
Skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby during breastfeeding increases a sense of well-being in babies, and provides them with emotional security.
Sucking while breastfeeding encourages full development of oral muscles and facial bones.
Breastfed infants are healthier. When illnesses do occur, breastfed babies recover faster and the effects tend to be milder than for babies who are not fed human milk.
Breastfed babies receive immunities that provide protection from ear and respiratory infections.
Unique substances in breastmilk inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses in babies' digestive systems, thus reducing colic and diarrheal infections.
Breastfed babies have increased protection from contracting infections that cause meningitis.
Babies who are breastfed exclusively for six months have greater protection against infections and allergies.
Exclusive breastfeeding for four months helps protect a baby from asthma.
Breastfed babies are one-third less likely to die of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Breastfeeding for one year or longer reduces a baby's risk of diabetes by 50 percent.
Babies who are exclusively breastfed for at least six months have a reduced risk of cancer before the age of 15.
Breastfeeding encourages normal weight gain in babies, which is good insurance against future tendency toward obesity. And, the lower salt content in breastmilk may reduce a baby's chance of developing hypertension in later years.
Breastfed daughters may be less likely to develop breast cancer later in life.

This publication is for general informational purposes only and it is not intended to provide any reader with specific authority, advice or recommendations. Where you deem necessary, we suggest that you seek advice regarding your particular situation from the appropriate professional.