Breast-fed infants have lower risks of developing asthma, obesity, type 2 diabetes, ear and respiratory infections, and sudden infant death syndrome, according to the CDC. Their mothers also benefit from lower risks of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and ovarian and breast cancers. Because of these benefits, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding, a goal 1 in 4 US children reach.
Nearly 60% of US infants are still breastfeeding at 6 months of age, but not exclusively. The report’s authors conclude that the statistics suggest mothers want to breast feed, but may not receive necessary support from health care providers, family, and employers. “The more we support breastfeeding mothers, the more likely they will be able to reach their breastfeeding goals,” The CDC recommends that hospitals and clinicians support breastfeeding by helping…
