Breastmilk is Your Baby’s
Perfect Food

• Doctors say it is best to feed your baby only breastmilk until he is around 6 months old.
• Breastmilk has all the nutrients your baby needs to be healthy.
• Breastfed babies get sick less often. They have fewer ear infections and colds.
• Breastmilk is easier to digest. Breastfed babies have less diarrhea, constipation, and stomach trouble.
• Children who were breastfed as babies are less likely to have diabetes, allergies, and some cancers.
• Children who were breastfed as babies are less likely to be overweight.
• Breastmilk helps your baby’s brain grow and may help her do better in school.
• After 6 months, you can continue to breastfeed your baby for as long as you like while introducing other foods.

Breastfeeding is Good for Mothers and Families

• Breastfeeding creates a special bond between mother and baby.
• Moms who breastfeed have lower risks for breast and ovarian cancer later in life.
• Breastfeeding may help moms get back in shape more quickly. Breastfeeding burns 500 calories a day!
• Breastfeeding makes many moms feel proud because it’s something only moms can give.
• Breastfeeding saves families considerable money in formula and health care costs.
• With breastfeeding, there’s nothing to carry, measure, or heat. It makes nighttime feedings and traveling with your baby much easier.