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Home What is Facts for Life? Timing Births Safe Motherhood Child Development and Early Learning Breastfeeding Nutrition and Growth Immunization Diarrhoea Coughs, Colds and More Serious Illnesses Hygiene Malaria HIV/AIDS Injury Prevention Disasters and Emergencies PDF and text-only versions |
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BreastfeedingSupporting Information |
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Key Message 5:Breastfeeding helps protect babies and young children against dangerous illnesses. It also creates a special bond between mother and child. |
Breastmilk is the baby's 'first immunization'. It helps to protect against diarrhoea, ear and chest infections and other health problems. The protection is greatest when breastmilk alone is given for the first six months and breastfeeding continues well into the second year and beyond. No other drinks or foods can provide this protection. Breastfed babies usually get more attention and stimulation than those who are left to feed themselves with bottles. Attention helps infants grow and develop and helps them feel more secure. |
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