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Breastfeeding helps lay the foundations of a healthy life for a baby.

The Ministry of Health recommends that babies are exclusively breastfed for the first six months. After six months, breast milk is not enough on its own for a baby to grow and develop. Therefore breastfeeding should be continued until a baby is at least one year old with the addition of solid food from six months.

It's important breastfeeding mothers have support from their partners, family/whānau, health practitioners, their employers and the community.

There are many benefits of breastfeeding for the mother and the baby:

Breastfeeding and breast milk helps protect babies from some childhood infections.
Breastfeeding decreases the risk of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI).
Breastfeeding helps reduce the risk of obesity and may help reduce the risk of diabetes in later life.
Breastfeeding is linked to optimal brain development.
Breastmilk is free and readily available with no heating required.
There is less risk of under or over feeding when breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding forms a unique bond between the mother and baby.
Breastmilk contains essential nutrients not found in infant formula.