As a group, breast-fed babies tend to have fewer infections than babies fed formula. Enzymes and other substances in breast milk make digestion somewhat easier and aid in the absorption of nutrients . Manufactured formulas do a fairly good job of imitating breast milk, but some of breast milk's more complex substances are too difficult to manufacture, and some have not yet been identified. A recent study indicates that breast-feeding may help prevent childhood obesity .
Breast milk is always the right temperature when the infant sucks it directly from the breast.
Unsafe with some medical conditions. Difficult with breast surgery. Women who have had major breast surgery, such as breast reduction, may have difficulty breast-feeding because their breasts may not produce enough milk or the ducts through which the milk travels in the breast may have been severed. Breast-fed babies usually need to eat more often. Some women feel uncomfortable with the idea of breast feeding, but with adequate education and support, most women can overcome any initial inhibitions or concerns they may have.