BREASTFEEDING BASICS
Breast milk: the perfect food
Research shows breast milk is
the best possible food for babies. Why?
It’s nutritious
Breast milk is loaded with nutrients – particularly
specific types of fat – that promote brain growth and
development of the nervous system. In fact, studies have
shown children who were breastfed as babies score higher
on intelligence tests and have better eye function. In
addition, babies can digest and utilize the sugars and
protein in breast milk more completely and efficiently
than those in formulas.
It helps fight infections
Only breast milk has several types of active cells,
including antibodies, that help prevent infections in
babies. Research shows that babies who receive breast
milk have lower levels of infections of the ears, as
well as the gastrointestinal, respiratory and urinary
systems. Because of these special cells, if a breastfed
baby gets an infection, it usually is not as serious or
long lasting.
It’s easier to digest
Newborns’ digestive tracts are not fully matured, and
they need nourishment that is easy to digest. Breast milk
provides a nutritious food that your baby's body can
easily process. All the great ingredients that make breast milk so
good for your baby are completely available to help him
grow healthy and strong.
It’s more suited to
baby’s body
Breast milk is designed just for babies, and it’s
perfect for their developing bodies. Research shows this
is a reason breastfed babies have lower rates of
allergies and asthma.
