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Benefits of Breastfeeding
Breast milk is the best food for a baby. It is always changing to meet a baby's needs. Breast milk contains just the right amount of fatty acids, lactose, water and amino acids (protein) for a baby's digestion, brain development and growth.
Colostrum, the early milk produced by a breastfeeding mother, is rich in nutrients and antibodies. It is the perfect starter food for a baby.
There are many benefits to breastfeeding. Some are more beneficial to the mother while others are more important to the baby.
- Breastfeeding requires no special preparation.
- Breast milk is fresh, clean and at the right temperature.
- Breast milk is nutritionally superior to any alternative.
- Breast milk is the least allergic of any food for a baby.
- Breast milk has many special substances that protect against infection.
- Breastfed babies have fewer illnesses and stomach upsets.
- Breastfed babies are less likely to be overfed.
- Breastfeeding causes the mother's uterus to contract. This helps her body return to its pre-pregnancy shape.
- Breastfeeding promotes good jaw and tooth development.
- Breast milk is easy to digest and is gentle on the baby's stomach.
- Breastfeeding may help protect the mother against breast and ovarian cancer.
- Breastfeeding generally costs less than commercial formulas. Since there are usually no containers to wash, heat, or dispose of with breast milk, breastfeeding may have a positive environmental impact.
- Breastfeeding promotes a close mother-baby bond.
- Breastfeeding may help a mother return to her pre-pregnancy weight sooner.
Questions? Want to sign up? Contact your local WIC clinic.
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- Phone: (207) 287-3991
In-state Toll Free:
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