The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends mothers exclusively breastfeed their babies for the first six months. Breastfeeding can be hard work and mothers need support but for many women the benefits for both mom and baby, outweigh any obstacles.
Nutrition
All the vitamins and nutrients babies need for the first six months of life
Protection
Reduces rates of pneumonia, colds and viruses
Safety
AAP says breastfeeding decreases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
Long-term
Reduces risk of baby developing type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, childhood cancers and Crohn’s disease
Affordable
Breast milk is free
Convenient
No preparation and no bottles* – breast milk is always ready and the right temperature
*Exclusively Pumping
Due to many factors including personal choice, lifestyle/work or because of medical/physical difficulties, some mothers exclusively pump and feed their babies breast milk through bottles. This is breastfeeding and has the same benefits.
Ultimately, the decision on how to feed baby is up to the mother and she knows what’s best. Whether it’s breast or bottle, breast milk or formula, and in many cases a combination, a well-fed and healthy baby, is a happy baby.
