5 Benefits of Breastfeeding

Mother breastfeeding her baby while laying down

Breastfeeding is a personal choice, no doubt. And fed is best (because sometimes breastfeeding isn’t a choice). But there are compelling reasons why the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend exclusive breastfeeding for six months and continued breastfeeding—along with complimentary foods—for two years when possible. Consider these five boons of breastfeeding:

Breastfed infants tend to get sick less

Babies who get breast milk tend to have lower risks for ear infections, stomach bugs, and eczema. They also appear to be at lower risk for more serious respiratory conditions—and even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Research suggests that breastfed babies also have lower rates of tooth decay and get fewer cavities.

Breastfeeding provides long-term health benefits for both babies and mothers

Some research suggests that the health-promoting effects of breast milk on a child may persist throughout life, offering protection against high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Mothers who breastfeed also appear to be at lower risk for high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, as well as heart disease and breast and ovarian cancers later in life.

Breastfeeding might help you lose the baby weight

Breastfeeding is no magic bullet when it comes to shedding pounds, but making milk does require energy (read: calories) and, combined with a healthy diet and exercise, may help with postpartum weight loss—particularly for those who who keep nursing beyond the six-month mark.

Breastfeeding could give you an edge over postpartum depression

Some research links not breastfeeding with a higher risk of postpartum depression. Why? It’s unclear, though one guess is that breastfeeding may improve mama-baby interactions. That said, it’s important to note that other science shows that worrying about breastfeeding may actually increase the risk for depression. Upshot: if you’re feeling stressed about feeding your baby, consult a lactation counselor, who can help you figure out what’s best for you and your baby.

Breastfeeding is good for Mother Earth

When you feed your baby breast milk over formula, it reduces the amount of land needed for grazing cows, and cuts back on resources required to make, package, and transport infant formula products.

Mamava designs solutions to empower breastfeeding and pumping parents on the go, like our freestanding lactation pods, Mamava’s lactation space locator app, and other helpful resources.

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