How long are the benefits of breastfeeding?

How long should a mother breastfeed? The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants be exclusively breastfed for about the first 6 months with continued breastfeeding along with introducing appropriate complementary foods for 1 year or longer.

What is the most beneficial time to breastfeed?

The World Health Organization and UNICEF recommend that babies be breastfed for at least two years. “Review of evidence has shown that, on a population basis, exclusive breastfeeding for six months is the optimal way of feeding infants.

Does breastfeeding make babies smarter?

Babies who are breastfed for at least a year grow up to be significantly more intelligent as adults and earn more money, a new study shows. Babies who are breastfed for at least a year grow up to be significantly more intelligent as adults and they earn more money, too, a new study shows.

What are the health benefits of breastfeeding infants?

Research shows that breastfeeding offers many health benefits for infants and mothers, as well as potential economic and environmental benefits for communities. Breastfeeding provides essential nutrition. Among its other known health benefits are some protection against common childhood infections…

What are the pros and cons of breastfeeding?

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.

How are black women less likely to breastfeed?

Breastfeeding Disparities Exist. 1 Fewer non-Hispanic black infants (69.4%) are ever breastfed compared with non-Hispanic white infants… 2 Infants eligible for and receiving the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants,… 3 Younger mothers (aged 20 to 29 years) are less likely to ever breastfeed…

How does breastfeeding save you money and time?

Breastfeeding can save you thousands of dollars. If you exclusively nurse your baby, you will not need to buy formula, bottles, and supplies. Breastfeeding also helps keep your child healthier, which can lower medical costs and reduce the amount of work you miss to care for a sick baby.