Breast milk provides the optimal nutrients for your baby. It contains antibodies that protect your baby from infections. Breast-feeding helps the uterus return to its normal size faster, is convenient and economical. It also eliminates the need to sterilize or heat bottles.

During the first three or four days of breast-feeding, the milk you produce is colostrum, a yellowish, translucent fluid rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and antibodies that help protect your child against infections. This early milk also acts as a natural laxative to help your baby pass the meconium stool in the first few days following birth.

By about the tenth day, your breast milk develops into mature milk, which continues to change to meet your baby's evolving needs. Exclusive breast-feeding is recommended for at least the first 6 months of life. However, after introducing solid foods you may continue breast-feeding up to 2 years of age and beyond.

Advantages of Breast Milk

• Contains the perfect balance of nutrients
  
  
• Rich in antibodies
  
  
• Less potential for allergy
  
  
• Fosters a bond and close relationship with baby
  
  
• Always nutritious, sterile and available
  
  
• Easily digested by baby's developing digestive system
  
  
• Changes to meet the nutritional needs of a growing baby

Important Notes

Alcohol and drugs can pass through your system into your breast milk and harm your baby.

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