Published: August 2, 2017
By Carol Conger
The experience of breastfeeding is special for so many reasons: the joyful closeness and bonding, the cost savings and the health benefits for both mother and baby. Breastfeeding saves lives, money and time. Breast milk is the perfect food for babies. Breast milk comes premixed, at the right temperature and is quite portable. The cells, hormones and antibodies in breast milk help protect babies from illness. This protection is unique and changes to meet a growing baby’s needs. Research shows that breastfed babies have lower risks of
- Asthma
- Leukemia (during childhood)
- Obesity (during childhood)
- Ear infections
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Lower respiratory infections
- SIDS
- Type 2 diabetes