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 The benefits of breastfeeding |
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Many of us know that breastfeeding is a healthy choice for mother and baby. But according to a recent survey to mark WCRF UK’s Cancer Prevention Week, only one in five of us knows that it could also reduce our cancer risk.
 Best start for babies
You probably know that breast milk is the ideal food for babies, giving them the best start in life. It provides all the nutrients babies need, helps protect them from infections and asthma and boosts their immune system. You probably also know that breastfeeding helps mother and baby to bond.
How is it linked to cancer prevention?
But, you might not know that breastfeeding provides benefits in the long-term too, for both mother and baby. The WCRF/AICR Second Expert Report found that breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer in mothers and probably helps prevent excess weight gain in their children.
WCRF/AICR recommends that mothers breastfeed their babies exclusively up to six months. This is in line with advice from the Department of Health and the World Health Organization.
 What are the long-term benefits for the baby?
Breastfed babies have a decreased risk of becoming overweight or obese as they grow. Research shows that babies who are breastfed are less likely to consume too many calories than babies who are fed infant formula.
It is now well known that obesity is a strong risk factor for many cancers, including those of the bowel and breast (in postmenopausal women).
What are the long-term benefits for the mother?
In addition to helping mothers to lose any excess baby weight more quickly, breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast cancer.
The protective effect of breastfeeding is probably due to the balance of hormones produced during the breastfeeding process. By lowering levels of some cancer-related hormones in the mother’s body, the risk of cancer is reduced.
Also, at the end of breastfeeding, the body gets rid of many cells in the breast, some of which may have DNA damage. This reduces the risk of breast cancer developing in the future.
Top tips for successful breastfeeding
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Your baby needs to be correctly positioned and attached to your breast. This will help your baby to get the right amount of milk and will help prevent your breast from getting sore. |
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Avoid giving your baby any other foods or drinks including water, as this will reduce your milk production. In fact, the more you breastfeed the more milk you produce! |
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Avoid giving a dummy to your baby. It might make breastfeeding more difficult, since babies use a different type of sucking motion on the breast compared with a dummy. |
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Breastfeeding is a learning process! It might take some time before you and your baby feel completely comfortable breastfeeding. So, be patient and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your GP or health visitor. |
For further information speak to your GP or a health visitor and look for support groups in your local area.
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WCRF UK, 19 Harley Street, London W1G 9QJ - Tel: 020 7343 4200 - Fax: 020 7343 4201 - wcrf@wcrf.org
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