Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breast milk is the best food for a baby. It is always changing to meet a baby's needs. Breast milk contains just the right amount of fatty acids, lactose, water and amino acids (protein) for a baby's digestion, brain development and growth.

Colostrum, the early milk produced by a breastfeeding mother, is rich in nutrients and antibodies. It is the perfect starter food for a baby.

There are many benefits to breastfeeding. Some are more beneficial to the mother while others are more important to the baby.

• Breastfeeding requires no special preparation.
• Breast milk is fresh, clean and at the right temperature.
• Breast milk is nutritionally superior to any alternative.
• Breast milk is the least allergic of any food for a baby.
• Breast milk has many special substances that protect against infection.
• Breastfed babies have fewer illnesses and stomach upsets.
• Breastfed babies are less likely to be overfed.
• Breastfeeding causes the mother's uterus to contract. This helps her body return to its pre-pregnancy shape.
• Breastfeeding promotes good jaw and tooth development.
• Breast milk is easy to digest and is gentle on the baby's stomach.
• Breastfeeding may help protect the mother against breast and ovarian cancer.
• Breastfeeding generally costs less than commercial formulas. Since there are usually no containers to wash, heat, or dispose of with breast milk, breastfeeding may have a positive environmental impact.
• Breastfeeding promotes a close mother-baby bond.
• Breastfeeding may help a mother return to her pre-pregnancy weight sooner.