Benefits of Breastfeeding

You may have heard that “breast is best”, but do you really know what is so special about breast milk and breastfeeding?  Read on to discover some of the many wonderful reasons to breastfeed . . .

I want what's best for my baby

Breast milk :

• Is human milk for human babies
• Is available when baby arrives
• Is produced in the amount that baby needs
• Is always fresh, warm and ready
• Protects baby against ear, chest and stomach infections
• Lowers a child’s risk of obesity and diseases like diabetes
• Helps to prevent allergies and asthma
• Lowers a child's risk of some childhood cancers
• Is available for as long as mother and baby want
• Is safe during emergencies and when traveling 

Breastfeeding:

• Comforts baby when he's sick, upset or hurt
• Lowers the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
• Supports baby’s brain development

I want what's best for me

• Breastfeeding helps women recover faster from childbirth
• Breastfeeding helps use up extra body fat gained during pregnancy 
• Breastfeeding decreases the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer 
• Breastfeeding helps to keep bones strong

I want what’s best for my family

• Breastfeeding encourages closeness and bonding
• Breastfeeding saves time and money

I want what’s best for our environment

• Breast milk is a renewable resource
• Breastfeeding saves energy and reduces pollution

For more information, call (705) 721-7520, or click Your Health Connection and speak with a public health nurse.