The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently updated their guidance to continue to recommend exclusive breastfeeding for six months, with complementary foods introduced around six months. However, under the new policy, the AAP now supports continued breastfeeding until two years or beyond, as mutually desired by mother and child. There is no need to give your baby infant formula or other sources of nutrition unless you are unable to nurse for medical or other reasons.
There are so many benefits to breastfeeding. It improves the health of the nursing parent and her baby. Breastfeeding can protect against respiratory illnesses, ear infections, gastrointestinal diseases, diabetes and allergies including asthma and eczema. The rate of SIDS and infant death is reduced in breastfed babies, and there is a reduction in later obesity in breastfed versus non-breastfed infants. There are continued benefits from breastfeeding beyond 1 year, and up to 2 years, especially for the breastfeeding parent’s health. This includes protection against diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancers of the breast and ovaries.
Please see these links to see the full benefits of breastfeeding: