Why Breast is Best

Over 40 years of counseling breastfeeding mothers in our medical practice we have observed the following benefits: mother and baby seem more connected, babies grow healthier and smarter, and a baby’s immune system is healthier. Science supports this. There are many studies showing that breastfed babies are smarter and healthier. The most recent was published in the September issue of JAMA Pediatrics where researchers at Harvard Boston Children’s Hospital (where Dr. Bill trained) did a seven-year study and found that breastfed babies do indeed have a higher verbal IQ. In some cultures, breast milk is known as “white blood.” In fact, every drop of your milk contains over a million immune-boosting white blood cells. Here’s a statement we have made in our medical practice thousands of times because we care about the future health of mothers and babies: Breastfeeding your baby for as long as mother and baby are able and willing is one of the best long-term investments you can make into the emotional, intellectual, and physical health of both mother and baby. During the first year or two you will spend more time feeding your baby than any single interaction. Breastfeeding helps you enjoy feeding. We wish you and your baby a pleasurable experience!