Last Reviewed: September 2011
Make An Informed Decision
It's important to you to give your baby the best start in life. To do this, Peel Public Health knows you need good quality information to help you make the best choice for feeding your baby.
On this site, you'll find recent medical information on what causes some health problems in infants as well as how breast milk reduces an infant's health risks.
Research shows breastfed babies are at lower risk for various infections, including diarrheal or gastrointestinal infections. There is also strong medical evidence that shows exclusive breastfeeding further reduces an infant's risk for infection and disease. For example, when mothers exclusively breastfeed for at least six months, infants are 50% less likely to get an ear infection.
Common diseases which require medical attention (such as, gastro-intestinal infection and lower respiratory tract infections) are significantly less common in breastfed babies.
Recent reviews of the research also indicate a lower risk for other long-term health consequences for those with a history of breastfeeding. For example, the risk of obesity in later life is decreased by 14-33% for babies who were breastfed compared to formula-fed babies.
Take the time to review the information on this website and make an informed decision for your baby.
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