Benefits of Breastmilk

  • Less diarrhea, constipation, and spitting up
  • More easily digested and absorbed nutrients
  • Lower numbers and severity of respiratory, urinary, ear and other infections
  • Less likely to suffer from childhood cancers, asthma, allergies, obesity, diabetes, eczema, and chronic bowel diseases
  • Less risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome)
  • Better response to vaccinations
  • Higher IQ and higher scores on test of development throughout childhood
  • Healthier teeth
  • Lower re-hospitalization rate
  • Lower cholesterol levels
  • Less ulcerative colitis
  • Less Crohn’s disease
  • Less heart disease
  • Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)
  • Chronic lung disease
  • Special eye problems
  • Infections
  • Breastfeeding is not only good for babies, but also has benefits for mothers. Some of the benefits specifically for mothers include:
  • Helps women lose weight gain in pregnancy
  • Lower risk of breast cancer
  • Lower risk of ovarian cancer
  • Lower risk of osteoporosis (thinning of bones)
  • Less missed time at work and fewer doctor’s visits
  • Less expense and more convenience feeding their baby
  • Comforts baby quickly – so less crying and happier baby
  • Breastfeeding hormones help mothers feel calm and connect with their baby
  • Lower risk of heart and blood vessel disease and diabetes
  • Less postpartum bleeding
  • Lower risk of postpartum depression