Breast-feeding


Content provided by Healthwise
small text medium text large text

Breast-feeding


Breast-feeding is feeding a baby breast milk directly from the breast or from a bottle after expressing the milk with a pump. Breast milk provides the best nutrition for a baby.

All major professional medical organizations that focus on children, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommend breast-feeding for at least the first year of a baby's life. This recommendation includes feeding a baby only breast milk for the first 6 months. Other foods, such as cereal, are then gradually introduced while continuing to breast-feed.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

Healthwise Logo
Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.

Search


Where Does it Hurt?

body symptoms

If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.