CLEVELAND – The immediate benefits of breastfeeding for babies, such as fewer respiratory illnesses and better weight gain, have been well researched.
Now, a recent study shows babies who are exclusively breast-fed actually have healthier cholesterol numbers at age seventeen.
The study looked at data on 3,261 children.
Researchers compared cholesterol levels, at age 17, between children who were exclusively breastfed and children who received formula for the first three months of life.
They found the children who were exclusively breast-fed had better cholesterol numbers than the children who received formula – regardless of their current weight.
Kimberly Giuliano, M.D., of Cleveland Clinic Children’s did not take part in the study, but said it adds to previous research that has shown breastfeeding helps children far beyond their infant years.
“We see lower incidences of allergic and atopic diseases, lower incidences of cancer, lower incidences of autoimmune disease like diabetes and celiac disease – lots of benefits to be had in the very beginning, and then, now we know, life long,” she said.
Dr. Giuliano said it’s best for babies if they are exclusively breast-fed for the first six months of life.
The benefits of breastfeeding extend to mom as well, including decreased bleeding, decreased pain, lower levels of postpartum depression, and lower risks of some cancers later in life.
But she admits, for some moms, it can be tricky getting started.
For moms who are really struggling, Dr. Giuliano recommends reaching out to lactation consultants or even the child’s pediatrician for help.
While those first six months can seem like a long, challenging time, she reminds moms that it’s worth it for the long term health of the child.
“It’s just really those first few days, and sometimes those first couple of weeks that are the biggest challenge, but some breastfeeding advocates will say in two weeks it may be hard; but at two months it will get easier, and after a few months you will be so happy that you did it,” said Dr. Giuliano.
Complete results of the study can be found in Pediatrics.
RELATED VIDEO:
Other health stories on 13 ON YOUR SIDE:
- Study: Working long hours may lead to stroke
- CDC reports 153 possible cases of lung disease connected to vaping
- Visiting a city park can make you as happy as Christmas Day, study finds
- Is it time for flu vaccines already?
- Worst year for measles since 1992
- 'Alcohol is alcohol' | Why trendy hard seltzers aren't so healthy
- Are meat mimics good for your health?
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter.
