There are many – for the mother as well as the baby.

TO THE BABY

• Breast milk provides all the nutrition baby needs for the first six months.
• The milk is already at the correct temperature.
• As there is a high amount of water in breast milk- around 80% – there is no need to give extra water.
• Breastfeeding helps in the development of strong bones in the jaw and this later assists in clear speech.
• The calcium in breastmilk, which makes bones and teeth strong, is very well absorbed.
• A breastfed baby has fewer allergies, chest and ear infections and also fewer respiratory and stomach illnesses.
• Breastmilk contains taurine which provides optimum brain development.
• Premature babies are proved healthier with breastmilk.
• A baby’s immune system develops more quickly in a breastfed baby.
• There are fewer incidences of Crohn’s Disease, Coeliac Disease, high blood pressure and multiple sclerosis developing in later life when a baby has been breastfed.

TO THE MOTHER

• After birth, breastfeeding helps the uterus (womb) contract and return to its pre-birth size.
• As breastfeeding uses up 500 calories a day, if you are not overeating it will help to lose weight!
• Feeding time is a chance for Mum to put the feet up and have a rest.
• The skin to skin contact when feeding, releases hormones which strengthen bonding.
• Protects against osteoporosis in later life as it ensures strong bones as the baby grows.
• Breastfeeding is associated with a deceased risk of ovarian, uterine and breast cancer in later life.
• Breastfeeding saves money as no spending on bottles and teats. And so it saves time too.
• Bowel motions are less smelly in a breastfed baby. They may be runnier and constipation is rare.

Breastfeeding is environmentally friendly too as no bottles, teats, packets and tins are needed!