Breastfeeding Fast Facts

Breast milk is a great source of nutrition for your baby. Learn about breastfeeding recommendations and benefits, and vitamin and mineral considerations. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that infants be exclusively breastfed for about the first 6 months. Then, continue breastfeeding until your child is 12 months or older while introducing appropriate complementary foods. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization also recommend exclusive breastfeeding for about the first 6 months. Then, continue breastfeeding for up to 2 years of age or longer while introducing appropriate complementary foods. Breast milk is an excellent source of nutrition. However, breastfed infants will need extra vitamin D (beginning at birth), and possibly iron supplements. Learn more at Vitamins & Minerals. Breastfeeding is good for both you and your baby. Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for most babies. As your baby grows, your breast milk will change to meet their nutritional needs. Breastfeeding can also help protect you and your baby against some short- and long-term illnesses and diseases. Mothers who breastfeed their babies have a lower risk of: Babies who are breastfed have a lower risk of: Severe lower respiratory disease. Acute otitis media (ear infections). Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Gastrointestinal infections (diarrhea/vomiting). Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) for preterm infants What to Expect While Breastfeeding How Much and How Often to Breastfeed