Breast milk contains various anti-infectious agents and immunocytes, protecting the infant from infections, while they strengthen the immune system.  Malaise, diarrhea, respiratory tract infections, ear infections and urinary tract infections occur more frequently in infants that do not breast feed but are fed with formula.  

 

Your baby will continue to benefit from breastfeeding as it grows up.  Scientific research has shown that breastfed babies have better mental development than others.  This difference has been attributed to the lack of polyunsaturated long chain fatty acids (particularly arachidonic and dodeca-hexanoic acid – DHA) that are necessary for the development of the nervous system from any other alternative type of nutrition.  

 

                                                            

 

Also, children that during infancy were fed with alternative types of nutrition only, are at a higher eczema risk, diabetes and higher blood pressure than respective breastfed children.   

 

Lactation also has important benefits for the mothers.  It makes post-pregnancy weight loss easier, protects from breast and ovarian cancer and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.  

Remember: 
Your own milk is ideal for your baby, since its synthesis is individualized in a way to cover its particular and constantly changing needs.  For most infants, breast milk alone covers sufficiently their nutritional needs, approximately up to the age of 6 months!