In addition, breastfeeding helps to create the special bond between a mother and her baby. Crying is a late indicator. Exclusive breastfeeding is ideal nutrition and sufficient to support optimal growth and development for the first 6 months. Before advising against breastfeeding or recommending premature weaning, the doctor should weigh the benefits of breastfeeding against the risks of not receiving human milk. The Benefits of Breastfeeding for Infants Human milk provides all the nutrients your baby needs to stay healthy.
Breast milk contains antibodies that help to protect a baby from disease.
Infants are less likely to have ear infections in the first year of life. Reduces the chances and seriousness of bacterial infections such as meningitis. Reduces the risk for childhood cancer such as lymphoma. Breastfeeding for at least two months protects children from Type I diabetes. The Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mothers Reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.