Important Reasons to Breast-feed

Breast-feeding has numerous benefits for baby and mother, including decreased risk of illness for a newborn and increased bonding between mother and child. Yet despite the recommendation by the American Academy of Pediatrics that infants be breast-fed for one year, the breast-feeding rate for babies in this country remains low. According to a 2003 survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 70% of all U.S. babies were breast-fed at some time; about 36% of babies were still breast-feeding at six months; and about 17% of babies were breast-feeding at one year.*

Keeping Babies Happy and Healthy
Breast milk is the most complete form of nutrition for an infant. It contains just the right amount of protein, vitamins, minerals and fat that a newborn needs for proper growth and development. Breast-fed infants tend to gain less unnecessary weight and be leaner than formula-fed babies. In addition, most babies have an easier time digesting breast milk than they do formula.

The antibodies found in breast milk can help babies stay healthy. These antibodies boost immunity against ear, respiratory and digestive infections. Breast milk also lowers a baby's risk of developing allergies, tooth decay, high blood pressure and obesity later in life.

Breast-feeding can also help promote emotional closeness and attachment between baby and mother. This physical contact can help babies feel secure, warm and comforted.

Benefits for Mom
Not only is breast-feeding ideal for babies, but it is beneficial for moms as well. Breast-feeding can help:

• Burn extra calories, making it easier to lose pregnancy weight. However, it is important for nursing mothers to consume an extra 300-500 calories a day for the extra energy needed for breast-feeding.
• Lower the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. It also strengthens bones, and may reduce the risk of hip fractures and osteoporosis after menopause.**
• Promote bonding between mother and child. This closeness and intimacy is beneficial for both.

Breast-feeding may also be more convenient than bottles and formula. A breast-feeding mother can give her baby immediate satisfaction at the first sign of hunger. There is no formula to prepare or bottles to wash.

Staying Positive
Many women may be reluctant to breast-feed due to common misconceptions about breast-feeding or initial difficulties. If you choose to nurse, it's important to keep in mind that breast-feeding calls for patience, experimentation and family support. As you continue to nurse your baby, it will likely get easier as you discover what works best for both you and your baby.

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