Could breastfeeding protect your child?

According to a recent study, an estimated 900 babies could be saved each year if 90% of mothers breast-fed their children exclusively until they were 6 months old.

Breast milk protects against many costly illnesses because it contains antibodies passed down from the mother. Benefits include protection against asthma, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, stomach viruses, ear infections, and other illnesses. Breastfeeding also helps regulate insulin levels in the blood, which protects against diabetes and obesity.

Aside from direct health benefits, this study found that billions of dollars could be saved if this 90% mark was reached. Illness, treatment, hospitalization, and lost wages due to deaths were calculated into this cost-analysis.

Not mentioned in the article are the numerous other benefits of breastfeeding: mother-child bonding, perfect nutrition for the baby, weight loss and possible reduced risk of breast cancer for the mother, and much more.

If it is possible for you, breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do to help your baby in these crucial months of development.

For resources on breastfeeding, visit: The American Academy of Pediatrics
and The Federal Government's Women's Health Website