- 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
- Later puberty, fewer teenage pregnancies
- Less likely to become obese or hypertensive by age 12
| - Easier bonding with baby
- Reduced risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis
- Natural contraception (with exclusive breast-feeding, for several months)
- Pleasure of breast stimulation
- Satisfaction of meeting infant’s basic need
- No formula to prepare; no sterilization
- Easier travel with the baby
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