Studies show that breastfed babies are generally healthier and developmentally advance in their physical, mental and emotional aspects than bottle-fed babies.
Statistics show that globally, there are less than 40% babies under six months of age who are exclusively breastfed.
If a great number of babies were fed only breast milk in the first six months of their lives, it is approximated that about 1.
2 million infants will be saved each year.
If these infants continue to be breastfed until they are at least two years old, the development and general health of millions of children will be more enriched and improved.
Breastfeeding is the natural and healthiest method of feeding infants.
Though artificial feeding through bottle feeding of infant formula is acceptable, there is risk in artificial feeding.
It is a fact that infant diarrhea is closely associated to artificial feeding.
Access to clean water and more than acceptable hygienic conditions when preparing and feeding infant formula is a must.
Breastfeeding has been around since the word began but infant formula has been used for about 150 years only.
Though infant formula has evolved and greatly improved over the years, it is still cannot replicate the nutritional and immunological values of a mother's milk.
Studies have shown that a mother should breastfeed her infant within an hour of birth.
This intimate contact bonds the baby and the mother.
The "first milk" or colostrum is also expressed during the first few feedings.
The colostrum contains an adequate amount of antibodies for the newborn's protection against diseases.
Once the colostrum is expressed, breast milk becomes readily available.
It also contains antibodies to help protect infants from diarrhea and pneumonia, the two fatal infant diseases.
No other "food" or "drink" or even water is needed during the first six months of an infant's life.
Breast milk is sufficient.
At six months onwards, a baby must be introduced to other food but breastfeeding should continue, if possible, up to years of age since it is a great source of nutrition and energy.
It is available, affordable and a healthy option for babies.
Breastfeeding is a factor to a lifetime of excellent health.
Majority of adults who were breastfed when they were babies have lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and a lower incidence of type-2 diabetes and obesity.
There is indication that breastfed children do well in IQ tests.
Breastfeeding is not only beneficial to the baby but for the mother too.
Mothers who breastfeed do not generally menstruate, which is a good and natural method (though not 100% sure) of birth control.
Breastfeeding mothers lose the weight they gained during pregnancy faster and can even lower their susceptibility to obesity.
Breastfeeding can also lower the risk of ovarian and breast cancer.