Why is it important to breastfeed exclusively for 6 months?

Breastfeeding exclusively for six months lowers your baby’s risk for ear, nose, throat and sinus infections past infancy and may protect against autoimmune disease and respiratory allergies as well. After six months of breastfeeding, your baby also has a 19 percent lower risk for childhood leukemia.

Should exclusive breastfeeding still be recommended for 6 months?

The WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding of infants for the first 6 mo of life (EBF-6). We suggest that infant and young feeding guidelines make clear that complementary foods should be introduced at around 6 mo of age, taking infant developmental readiness into account.

Why is exclusive breastfeeding so important?

Breastfeeding protects against diarrhoea and common childhood illnesses such as pneumonia, and may also have longer-term health benefits for the mother and child, such as reducing the risk of overweight and obesity in childhood and adolescence. Exclusive breastfeeding means that the infant receives only breast milk.

Why do they recommend exclusive breastfeeding?

Why exclusive breastfeeding is important?

Breastfeeding an infant exclusively for the first 6 months of life carries numerous benefits such as lowered risk of gastrointestinal infection, pneumonia, otitis media and urinary tract infection in the infant while mothers return to her pre-pregnancy weight very rapidly and have a reduced risk of developing Type 2 …

What are 6 advantages of breastfeeding?

6 Major Benefits of Breastfeeding

• A Stronger Immune System. Breast milk contains antibodies and unique compounds that help your child’s body fight off bacterial and viral infections.
• Fewer Allergies.
• A Better Bonding Experience.
• Saves Time and Money.
• Fewer Chronic Diseases.
• Healthier Bodyweight.

Why is exclusive breastfeeding important?

What are the benefits of exclusive feeding?