Breastfeeding should begin within one hour of birth and should be on demand, as often as the child wants day and night.
It’s safe and contains antibodies that help protect infants from common childhood illness such as diarrhea and pneumonia.
Breastmilk is readily available and affordable, which helps to ensure that infants get adequate nutrition.
Exclusive breastfeeding reduces risks of breast and ovarian cancer, type II diabetes, and postpartum depression for the nursing mother.
Adolescents and adults who were breastfed as babies are less likely to be overweight or obese.
Breastmilk is the natural first food for babies; it provides all the energy and nutrients that the infant needs for the first months of life.
Breastmilk promotes sensory and cognitive development and protects the infant against infectious and chronic diseases.
Exclusive breastfeeding reduces infant mortality due to common childhood illnesses such as diarrhea or pneumonia, and helps for a quicker recovery during illness.