If you know the benefits of breastfeeding, but still aren't sure about trying it, click on "Will I be able to Breastfeed?" 

Benefits of Breastfeeding

• Convenient and ready to feed
• Nutritionally complete
• Easily digested by baby, causing fewer stomach problems
• Provides antibodies and immunity
• Promotes an intimate bond between you and your child
• Always fresh and safe
• Automatic re-fill : your body will produce the amount your baby needs
• Inexpensive
• Environmentally friendly

Breastfed babies benefit from:

• Protection from heart disease. The type of fat and cholesterol in breast milk protects against blood vessel changes that later lead to heart disease.
• Higher IQ. Breast milk contains just the right type of fat and protein to help the baby's brain grow.
• Fewer allergies and less chance of developing asthma. Babies given only breast milk for the first 4—6 months develop fewer food allergies.
• Better tooth and jaw development. The complex actions of the baby's sucking exercises the muscles in his or her face, jaw, and tongue.
• Less obesity. Your baby will decide when he or she is full.
• Less respiratory, ear, and gastrointestinal infections, as well as decreased risk of meningitis, kidney infections and blood poisoning.
• A reduced risk of childhood cancers, specifically lymphoma.

Benefits to mothers who breastfeed:

• Less post-partum bleeding and a quicker return of the uterus to its normal shape.
• Less anemia. Exclusive breastfeeding delays the return of your period, allowing your body more time to rebuild iron stores.
• Relaxation. Not only can you avoid the work of preparing bottles, but the hormones your body produces when you breastfeed create a feeling of calm and relaxation.
• Weight loss. Your body uses calories to make milk, and some of these calories come from the fat stores your body has put on throughout your pregnancy.
• By breastfeeding, you can lower your chances of breast and ovarian cancers and some other illnesses.

Sources:

• Kingston, Frontenac and Addington Health Unit. (2000) A Guide to Infant Feeding From Birth to 24 months. Kingston ON
• Scarborough Breastfeeding Network (1999) Breastfeeding Protocols for Health Care Providers. Toronto ON: Toronto Public Health