Do you know why breastmilk is so special?

It provides all the nutrition that your baby needs during his first year of life. Learn what is in breastmilk, as well as why you should breastfeed.

• Breastmilk helps babies react better to immunizations. Babies who are breastfed are able to produce antibodies easier so the chance of a reaction is reduced.

• Breastmilk helps a premature baby's bowels grow and adapt to tolerate milk. A premature baby who is breastfed will receive milk that's perfectly tailored to his needs. This milk is different than milk for a full-term baby and it has higher levels of antibodies and growth hormones.

• Mother's milk adapts to your baby's changing needs. The milk he receives as a newborn is much different than the milk he receives at six months old.

• Breastmilk works on supply and demand. If your baby needs more milk or he needs something specific in the milk, your body will make it for him.

• Mother's milk primes the stomach and the bowels to prevent the growth of harmful germs and bacteria. These germs can cause stomach upset and breastmilk reduces this chance.

• Breastmilk can help protect your baby from illness and infections, even if you're sick. The antibodies and interferon found in breastmilk will help him develop an immunity to these infections and viruses, reducing illness. Breastmilk is the ideal medication for your baby -- it's free and perfectly tailored to each infection or illness.

• Mother's milk helps promote the growth of your baby's eyesight, brain, and nerves. These cannot be duplicated through formula.

• Breastfeeding is good for mom too! Mothers who breastfeed may lose weight faster. Additionally, it's thought that breastfeeding can help protect women against brittle bones and ovarian and breast cancer.