What are the benefits of breastfeeding exclusively up to 6 months?

Question

My 3 mo. old baby is being breastfed exclusively.
I was hoping that after he became 3 months he would start having some cereal and even some babyfood. But pediatrician recomended to continue exclusively with breastmilk until he is 6 mo.
I just want to know why?? what are the benefits of this?

Answer 1

Your breast milk has balanced nutrition that is perfect for your baby. She/he really doesn't need anything else right now. Also, breast milk is said to help build up a child's strength and immune system. Your child probably could start eating cereal now, but it's just not necessary yet and your doctor is recommending what's healthiest.

Answer 2

Breastmilk is the perfect food for babies!!It's not necessary to feed them any thing else until after 6 months.The reason your pediatrician recommended waiting until 6 mos. is that after that age it's less likely that baby will develop allergies to certain foods.I think you're lucky to have a doctor who used that guideline.It's obvious he/she supports exclusive breastfeeding.Many docs say the do but don't seem to know a lot about it.Or at least they aren't to helpful with it!!Breastmilk has every thing your baby needs.It is the PERFECT food.I nursed all 5 of my babies and the earliest I started solids was 7 mos.My babies just weren't interested.Nursing builds a wonderful bond of closeness with baby(don't get me wrong, bottle babies are close to mommy too!!)You are doing so good to still be breastfeeding after 3 mos.Keep up the good work!

Answer 3

1. Reduces chances of baby getting common illnesses so early like an earache, cold, etc. In other words they are healthier babies.
2. Helps weight loss because it helps the uterus shrink back to its normal size faster.
3. Very nutritious
4. Helps babies that have jaundice to get rid of it faster
It is more beneficial for the baby but for you too because it is helping your baby out. It's mother nature's way of feeding the human race, so it can't be bad. But even if you do it for a few days, weeks, or months, it helps than not at all.

But even if he's breastfed you can introduce him to cereal and baby food around the 4th/5th month. You can start with the cereal first, and then gradually get to the baby food starting with the green baby food first. But if you feel overwhelmed with it, then stop but don't feel guilty for doing it because like I said, you doing it at all helped out you and your baby.

Answer 4

Less food allergies, less respiratory allergies, less gastro-intestinal distress....its the food baby was MEANT to eat. 3 more months is not a long time!