Breastfeeding and toddlers
Many women who breastfeed their babies enjoy the experience so much they decide to continue after the recommended six months and even past the first year. It is perfectly normal for toddlers to breastfeed. It is a common misconception that breast milk after the first six months holds no nutritional value for your baby. This is not the case as breastmilk contains protein, fat and other important nutritional elements that are important for babies and children alike.
Breastfeeding your toddler will also help prevent illness. It has been proven that babies who are breastfed between the ages of 16 and 30 months have fewer illnesses and illnesses of shorter duration. Research also suggests that children who are breastfed for longer have fewer allergies and are less likely to suffer from asthma. This is because the later your baby is exposed to potential allergens the less likely they are to suffer an allergic reaction. Breastfeeding also helps speed up the development of the protective intestinal barrier in the baby’s gut.
If you should decide that breastfeeding your baby past the first year is something you are comfortable with, you will be giving your baby a wonderful start in life
For more information read Am I a bad mum if I stop breastfeeding before one year?
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