According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breastfeeding is the best source of nutrition for most infants. In fact, the first milk produced, known as colostrum, is rich in nutrients and antibodies, helping protect newborns from infection. However, breastfeeding also provides significant health benefits for mothers. For those who breastfeed, it is a long-term investment in maternal health. The following are some of the benefits of breastfeeding:

• Faster recovery. Mothers who breastfeed typically recover from childbirth more quickly and easily.
• Reduced health risks. Breastfeeding is linked to a lower risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, ovarian cancer, and breast cancer.
• Fewer sick days. Families who breastfeed tend to experience fewer illnesses, resulting in less missed work for parents, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
• Postpartum weight loss. Many breastfeeding women return to their prepregnancy weight more quickly, though research is ongoing.
• Environmental impact. Breastfeeding is eco-friendly because there is no packaging waste or energy used in preparation.

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s Human Sciences team is dedicated to empowering mothers with knowledge, encouragement, and support throughout their breastfeeding journey. Learn more at aces.edu/blog/tag/breastfeeding/.