See PDF version: An Easy Guide to Breastfeeding for American Indian and Alaska Native Families» [PDF, 1.25MB]

Benefits for the Baby

• Mother's milk protects babies from ear infections, diarrhea, colds and flu.
• Mother's milk may protect babies from obesity and so reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Mother's milk is easily digested.
• Mother's milk is the perfect food for premature babies.

Benefits for Mom

• Breastfeeding is convenient.
• Breasfeeding shrinks the uterus and helps stop bleeding after birth.
• Breastfeeding means less risk of breast and ovarian cancers for moms.
• Moms may return to their pre-pregnancy weight quicker.
• Breastfeeding helps a mother and her baby bond.

Benefits for the Community

• Breastfeeding saves valuable, natural resources and keeps our environment clean.
• Breastfeeding means fewer health care dollars will be spent on illness.
• Breastfeeding will reduce time lost from work and school because of sickness.
• Breastfeeding honors our values, heritage and traditions.

Benefits for the Future

• Breastfeeding may mean fewer weight problems and less diabetes for the next generation.
• Breastfeeding means stronger and wiser leaders for the challenges of the future.
• Breastfeeding is a message of hope for our tomorrows.