Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breast milk is natural and especially 'designed' for the human baby. It has many health benefits for the baby and also the breastfeeding mother.

Mother

• Breastfeeding helps in the physical recovery from childbirth.

• Breastfeeding helps the mother in weight stabilization after pregnancy and childbirth.

• Breastfeeding may possibly also reduce the risk of some cancers, such as breast or ovarian cancer.

• Bonding happens between the mother and baby during breastfeeding.

• Breast milk is inexpensive and does not need to be prepared.

Baby

• Breast milk provides all the nutrients a baby needs for at least the first 6 months of life. For the following 6 months, breast milk continues to be an excellent source of nutrition when combined with other suitable foods.

• Breast milk is dynamic and living. It constantly changes in its nutrient composition to meet the needs of the baby throughout different times of feeding.

• Breastfeeding provides protection against disease later in life. It helps boost the immune system to fight illness and infections. The baby is also less likely to develop allergies.

• Breastfeeding reduces the likelihood of later diseases and health risks including obesity, diabetes, heart disease and some childhood cancers.

• Breast milk is ready when your baby needs it.

• Breast milk is hygienic.

• Babies digest breast milk easily.

• Breast milk contains a lot of natural substances that help a baby's development and growth.