The most beneficial time to breastfeed is exclusively for the first six months of a baby's life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods for two years or longer.
Here's a breakdown of the benefits associated with this timeframe:
Benefits of Exclusive Breastfeeding for Six Months
- Reduced Risk of Infections: Exclusive breastfeeding for six months significantly lowers the baby's risk of ear, nose, throat, and sinus infections, extending beyond infancy.
- Protection Against Autoimmune Diseases and Allergies: This period of exclusive breastfeeding may offer protection against autoimmune diseases and respiratory allergies.
- Lower Risk of Childhood Leukemia: After six months of breastfeeding, the baby has a 19% lower risk of childhood leukemia.
Benefits of Continued Breastfeeding
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends continued breastfeeding for up to two years or longer, alongside the introduction of appropriate complementary foods from six months onwards. This extended period offers further benefits to both mother and child, including:
- Continued immune support: Breast milk continues to provide antibodies and immune factors that protect the child from illness.
- Nutritional benefits: Breast milk remains a valuable source of nutrients even after the introduction of solid foods.
- Emotional bonding: Breastfeeding fosters a strong emotional bond between mother and child.
In summary, the ideal timeframe for breastfeeding to maximize its benefits is exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding with complementary foods for two years or longer.
