breastfeeding

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the benefits

Breast milk contains antibodies and nutrients that are not found in formula milk This gives babies fed with breast milk an advantage. The anti-infective properties of the milk line the baby's intestines and prime his or her immune system.

Some of these advantages extend long into adulthood, and apply to both mother and baby.

According to research, babies who are given formula milk are five times as likely to get infections such as gastroenteritis and problems like ear infections, than babies fed with human milk. They may also be at greater risk of developing some allergies including asthma.

Breast-fed babies have a lower risk of eczema, less chance of being overweight, a reduced risk of developing diabetes, and possibly a raised IQ (studies suggest they have a seven-point advantage over formula fed-babies).

A recent study from May 2008, has even shown that breast-fed babies may have a lower risk of developing breast cancer in adulthood.

Women who breastfeed also benefit. Studies have shown that women who breastfeed are less likely to suffer from breast cancer, some forms of ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes and post-menopausal osteoporosis.

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