For babies, it provides ideal nutrition. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that children should receive only breast milk for the first six months of life. Additional foods are recommended only after this period of time, with breastfeeding continuing for up to two years and beyond.
 
Breast milk also has many important antibodies, and children who are breast fed are at a reduced risk for developing:

• Asthma
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Obesity in later life 

For the mother, breastfeeding helps the body recover from the stresses of pregnancy, labour and delivery. The risk of developing breast cancer is also reduced.

Sometimes breastfeeding can be a challenge, but it is also an important part of your baby's health. Resources are available to help support you, deal with concerns and connect you with services.