What are the Benefits of Extended Breastfeeding?
Researched Evidence that Identifies Benefits of Breastfeeding to the Child, the Mother, and the Entire Family

What are the Benefits of Extended Breastfeeding? Throughout most of human history, breast milk has been the one food that infants have thrived on. Breastfeeding is recognized throughout the world as the preferred method of feeding infants due to its health benefits and nutritional quality. Recommendations by leading health organizations echo the importance of breastfeeding by setting forth guidelines. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics,” breastfeeding should be continued for the first year of life and beyond for as long as mutually …show more content…

A mother’s breast milk has omega-3 fatty acids (DHA) in it, which are referred to as “smart fats”. These fats are responsible for having smarter children, having improved vision from the omega-3 added benefit, and having better hearing from having a lower incidence of ear infections. Since breast milk is easier to digest, there are fewer incidences of spit-up, reflux, and constipation. Breast milk also contains an immunoglobulin (IGA) that coats the lining of the intestines, making it almost impossible for germs to penetrate through and cause infection. Their immune system also functions better because of the IGA in the breast milk (Sears, 2012).
The duration of breastfeeding is inversely related to children being overweight. According to a study done by the CDC, levels of plasma insulin in formula fed children are much higher than in breastfed children. This causes a greater deposit of fat tissue, which in turn increases weight gain and obesity. Also, breastfed children are able to control the amount of milk they consume, having a better sense of a full feeling, which may not be present with a formula fed child (Division of Nutrition. and Physical Activity, 2007).
Antibodies in breast milk prevent tooth decay by preventing the bacteria, strep mutants, to accumulate in the mouth. This bacterium, which is present in plaque, is the cause of tooth decay. Another reason for lack of problems with tooth