What scientific research says

A breastfed baby gets the best start in life. Breastmilk (and colostrum during the first days after birth) contain all the antibodies a baby needs to immunize him against most of
the early childhood illnesses.

Breastfed babies suffer fewer incidences of diarrhoea, respiratory and middle ear infections and are less
likely to develop allergies (see below). Breastmilk provides complete nourishment for an infant from birth
up to about six months of age. Apart from its immunological benefits, it is always at the right temperature, needs no sterilization, costs nothing and almost every mother and baby pair can breastfeed successfully. Breastfeeding promotes emotional bonding between mother and child.
There are also health benefits for the mother.

	Benefits to child health
	Benefits to maternal health