Why should babies be breastfed?
• Breast milk is the most complete form of nutrition for infants. Breast milk has just the right amount of fat, sugar, water, and protein that is needed for a baby’s growth and development. Most babies find it easier to digest breast milk than they do formula. • There are health risks to the baby if it is not breastfed. Breast milk has agents (called antibodiesin it to help protect infants from bacteria and viruses. Babies who are not exclusively breastfed for 6 months are more likely to develop a wide range of infections diseases including ear infections, diarrhea, and respiratory illnesses. They are sick more often and have more doctor’s visits. • Breastfed babies score higher on IQ tests in childhood, especially babies who were born prematurely. • Nursing uses up extra calories, making it easier to lose the extra weight gained during pregnancy. It also helps the uterus to get back to its original size and lessens any bleeding you might have after giving birth. • Breastfeeding lowers
