Why
Breastfeed?

It is recommended that infants are breastfed for the first six months of their lives because of the nutritional and physical benefits for both mother and child. Breastmilk delivers many essential nutrients to infants that contribute to their physical development and strengthen their immune system, decreasing the incidence of many illnesses and diseases. Breastfeeding also improves the post-pregnancy recovery process and reduces the risk of certain diseases for mothers while fostering an emotional bond between a mother and her infant.

Emotional Benefits

One of breastfeeding's invaluable benefits is the skin to skin contact that creates a physical and emotional bond between mother and child. Breastfeeding builds trust and increases a mother's awareness of her infant.

Health Benefits for Infants

As a result of the nutritional benefits, breastmilk lowers the incidence of many infant illnesses including Type II diabetes, asthma, childhood obesity, sudden infant death syndrome, ear infections, and childhood leukemia. Overall, a mother transfers her antibodies through her breastmilk which reduces the chance of infections and general sicknesses as well.

Health Benefits for Mothers

Breastfeeding has many health benefits for mothers in addition to infants. Breastfeeding can aid in the post-pregnancy recovery process and reduce the risk of postpartum depression. Breastfeeding also lowers the risk of mothers developing high blood pressure, Type II diabetes, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

Nutritional Benefits

Breastmilk contains many important nutrients including protein, carbohydrates, and fats that are essential to the physical development of newborn infants. Many of these nutrients are not found in formula milk. Breastmilk is beneficial for the development of the gastrointestinal, pulmonary, immune, and central nervous systems. Additionally, as breastmilk is naturally created by a mother's body, its composition is constantly changing to fulfill an infant's needs.