Birth to Five [antikvár]

FEEDING YOUR BABY Breastfeeding Different feeding situations Formula feeding Breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed your baby. Exclusive breastfeeding (that means giving your baby breastmilk only, with no other food or drink) is recommended for around the first six months of your baby's life. Breastmilk provides all the nutrients your baby needs and helps to protect them from infections and diseases. • Your breastmilk is the only food designed for your baby. It contains everything your baby needs for around the first six months of life. After that, giving your baby breastmilk alongside solid food will help them continue to grow and develop. The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for two years or longer. ' Breastfeeding protects your baby from infections and diseases. It also offers health benefits for mums. Every day makes a difference to your baby, and the longer you breastfeed, the longer the protection lasts. And it reduces your chance of getting some illnesses later in life. Formula milk cannot give your baby the same ingredients or provide the same protection. ' Breastfeeding helps build a strong bond between mother and baby, both physically and emotionally • Breastfeeding reduces the risk of cot death. a Strong bond Midwives, health visitors and trained volunteers - or peer supporters -can all offer information and practical help with breastfeeding. Peer supporters are mothers who have breastfed their own babies and have had special training to help them support other mothers. Talk to your midwife or health visitor about the help that is available in your area.