By Guadalupe Alfaro Cabrera, BS, CSUN Dietetic Intern

Research has shown that breastfeeding offers many health benefits for infants and mothers. Breastfeeding offers infants nutritionally balanced meals at the adequate temperature. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends to exclusively breastfeed for the first 6 months of life, because breast milk is sufficient to support optimal growth and development, and to continue for at least 12 months¹. Additionally, breast milk offers protection against some diseases, and lowers the risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome². Breastfeeding helps the mother heal faster after childbirth. Women that breastfeed have a lower risk to develop type 2 diabetes, certain types of breast cancer and ovarian cancer³. Continue reading →