Breastmilk is the best food for newborns.  It contains everything your baby needs.  No question, no debate, no doubt.  The Public Health Agency of Canada, The Dieticians of Canada, The Canadian Paediatric Society, and The College of Family Physicians agree that babies should have only breastmilk for the first six months.  After six months, babies can have solid foods along with breastmilk.

Breastfed babies are healthier

Babies who receive only breastmilk for six months are healthier.  They have only half the number of ear infections, and only one quarter the number of chest infections.  They are also less likely to have diarrhea or eczema.

Breastfed babies stay healthy longer

Children who are breastfed have less risk of getting diabetes, bowel disease, childhood cancers, and allergies. 

Breastfeeding helps your baby to develop

Breastfeeding helps your baby’s jaw, teeth, and speech develop well.  Breastfeeding also helps brain and eye development.

Breastfeeding is healthy for mothers
Breastfeeding lowers your risk of getting breast and ovarian cancer. 

Breastfeeding gives mothers a lot of freedom

Breastfeeding lets you feed your baby anywhere and anytime without having to worry about bottles and formula.

Breastfeeding saves you time and money

Breastmilk is always ready to serve.  There is no need to prepare formula or sterilize bottles.  Breastfeeding also costs much less.  Formula for the first year costs about $1200.

Breastfeeding helps after you return to work or school

Because breastfed babies are healthier, you will miss less time from school or work.  This means you avoid some of the stress of arranging for extra childcare.  Breastfeeding also lets you and your baby be close again when you get home.

Breastfeeding builds a special bond

Breastfeeding helps you and your baby bond with each other, and it builds your confidence as a mother.