Breastfeeding

  
Idaho CareLine: In Idaho, Dial 2-1-1 or 800-926-2588

 

 

 (En Español)

BreastfeedingWhen it comes to nutrition, the best first food for babies is breast milk.

More than two decades of research have established that breast milk is perfectly suited to nourish infants and protect them from illness. Breastfed infants have lower rates of hospital admissions, ear infections, diarrhea, rashes, allergies, and other medical problems than bottle-fed babies.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that breastfeeding continue for at least 12 months and thereafter for as long as mutually desired by mother and infant. The only acceptable alternative to breast milk is infant formula. Solid foods can be introduced when the baby is 4 to 6 months old, but a baby should drink breast milk or formula, not cow's milk, for a full year.

Breastfed Babies Have . . . Fewer colds and ear infections Better responses to Immunizations Fewer Childhood Diseases Less Diarrhea Fewer Allergies

More information and support for breastfeeding your child is available through local, state, and national organizations. Many local communities have support groups who meet regularly for breastfeeding mothers. Call Idaho CareLine at 1-800-926-2588 or 208-332-7205 (TDD) for resources near you, or contact your local hospital's lactation specialist.

More Information

• Getting Started
• The First Six Weeks
• Collecting and Storing Your Milk
• Common Concerns