Breastfed babies have

Stronger immune systems

Less diarrhea, constipation, gastroenteritis, gastroesophageal reflux, and preterm necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)

Fewer colds and respiratory illnesses like pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and whooping cough

Fewer ear infections, especially those that damage hearing

Fewer case of bacterial meningitis

Better vision and less retinopathy of prematurity

Lower rates of infant mortality

Lower rates of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Less illness overall and less hospitalization

Parents have up to six times less absenteeism from work

Breast milk provides abundant and easily absorbed nutritional components, antioxidants, enzymes, immune properties, and live antibodies from mother. Mother’s more mature immune system makes antibodies to the germs to which she and her baby have been exposed. These antibodies enter her milk to help protect her baby from illness. Immunoglobulin A coats the lining of the baby’s immature intestines helping germs and allergens from leaking through. Breast milk also contains substances that naturally soothe infants.

Breastfed babies may become healthier children with

Fewer instances of allergies, eczema, and asthma

Fewer childhood cancers, including leukemia and lymphomas

Lower risk of type I and II diabetes

Fewer instances of Crohn’s disease and colitis

Lower rates of respiratory illness

Fewer speech and orthodontic problems

Fewer cavities

Less likelihood of becoming obese later in childhood

Improved brain maturation

Greater immunity to infection

Teens and adults will find benefits for life

Less likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis and lupus

Less likely to develop heart disease in adulthood

Lower risk of multiple sclerosis

Lower rates of pre- and postmenopausal breast cancers

Breastfeeding is healthier for mom physically

Promotes faster weight loss after birth, burning about 500 extra calories a day to build and maintain a milk supply.

Stimulates the uterus to contract and return to normal size.

Less postpartum bleeding

Fewer urinary tract infections

Less chance of anemia

Less risk of postpartum depression and more positive mood

Healthier for mom emotionally

Breastfeeding produces the naturally soothing hormones oxytocin and prolactin that promote stress reduction and positive feelings in the nursing mother.

Increased confidence and self-esteem

Increased calmness. Breastfed babies cry less overall, and have fewer incidences of childhood illness. Breastfeeding can support the wellness of body, mind, and spirit for the whole family.

Breastfeeding makes travel easier. Breast milk is always clean and the right temperature.

Physical/emotional bonding between mother and child is increased. Breastfeeding promotes more skin-to-skin contact, more holding and stroking. Many feel that affectionate bonding during the first years of life help reduce social and behavioral problems in both children and adults.

Breastfeeding mothers learn to read their infant’s cues and babies learn to trust caregivers. This helps shape the infant’s early behavior.

Benefits for life, breastfeeding may result in

Lower risk of breast cancer

Lower risk of ovarian cancer

Lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis and lupus

Less endometriosis

Less osteoporosis with age

Less diabetes

Less hypertension decreases blood pressure

Less cardiovascular disease