The pediatric community recommends exclusive breastfeeding for about 6 months and then, breastfeeding alongside the introduction of food gradually until at least 12 months. But why does this matter so much?
Breastfeeding (or lactation, as the term refers to the mother's side) offers benefits to both the infant and the mother. Breast milk provides the baby with the nutrition it needs to grow properly and build strong defenses, and at the same time protects the mother from serious illnesses. Let's see them:
Benefits of breastfeeding
- Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for babies, as it contains all the nutrients they need while growing, in the right amounts and proportions. During the child's development, the mother's milk will change to meet the nutritional needs of her baby.
- Breastfeeding reduces the risk of asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, infections, stomach upsets and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) for infants.
- Through milk, the mother shares her antibodies with her baby. These antibodies help children build a strong immune system that will protect them throughout their lives.
- Certain cancers (breast and ovarian), type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure are less common in women who breastfeed.
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