Every woman’s path to becoming a mom is different, but one of the first decisions a new mom must make is how to feed her baby.

When you choose to breastfeed, you start baby’s future on the right track. Breastfeeding lets you make the food that is perfect for baby. It gives your baby the healthy start he/she needs to last a lifetime.

Breastfeeding also:

  • Gives Your Baby Vitamins and Minerals: Breastfeeding gives your baby the most food and nutrients that he or she needs to grow and stay healthy. The foods you eat are important because the vitamins pass from you to your baby in your breast milk.
  • Protects Your Baby: Breast milk protects babies from illness. Research shows that breastfed babies have lower risks of:
  • Asthma
  • Ear infections
  • Eczema (skin rash)
  • Diarrhea and vomiting
  • Breathing problems
  • Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Benefits your Health: Breastfeeding helps your health and healing after giving birth. It can often help you get back to your pre-pregnancy weight faster. Breastfeeding also leads to a lower risk of some health problems, like type 2 diabetes and certain types of breast cancer.
  • Creates a Special Bond: Breastfeeding is a great way to build a strong bond with your baby. When you nurse your baby, he/she is close to you and feels the warmth from your body. You are giving comfort, safety, food and love.

Source: womenshealth.gov