| For the Baby Balance of nutrition (fat, protein, etc.) adjusts to age of baby Breast milk has micronutrients not found in formula Less infant illness, including allergies, ear infections, stomach upsets Less childhood asthma Better childhood vision Less adult illness, including diabetes, cancer, heart disease Protection against many childhood diseases, since breast milk contains antibodies from the mother Stronger jaws, fewer cavities, advanced breathing reflexes (less SIDS) Higher IQ, less likely to drop out of school, more likely to attend college or university Later puberty, less teenage pregnancy Less likely to become obese or hypertensive by age 12 | For the Mother Easier bonding with baby Reduced risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis Natural contraception (with exclusive breastfeeding, for several months) Satisfaction of meeting infant’s basic need No formula to prepare; no sterilization Easier travel with the baby For the Family Increased survival of other children (because of spacing of births) Increased family income (because formula can be expensive) Less stress on father, especially at night |