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Articles
The following statistics on the benefits of breastfeeding have been documented
by medical experts worldwide including the American Academy of Pediatrics and
La Leche League® International.
Benefits for Babies
- Breastfed infants have fewer illnesses; and when illnesses do occur, the
effects tend to be milder than for babies who are not breastfed.
- Breastfed babies have fewer ear and diarrheal infections.
- Breastfed babies are less likely to develop respiratory infections, childhood
diabetes and childhood lymphoma.
- Babies who are breastfed for less than six months have seven times the incidence
of allergies as those who are breastfed longer than six months.
- 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.
- Breastfed babies are one-third less likely to die of Sudden Infant Death
Syndrome (SIDS).
- Breastfed babies are four times less likely to contract infections that
cause meningitis.
- Breastfeeding reduces Vitamin A deficiency in babies.
- Breastfed babies tend to have a higher IQ than formula-fed infants.
- Skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby while breastfeeding helps reduce
stress in babies, and provides them with emotional security.
- Sucking while breastfeeding enhances the baby’s development of oral muscles
and facial bones.
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.
Copyright© 2001, LifeCare®, Inc.
P.O. Box 2783, Westport, CT 06880.
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