Baby
In Photo: A baby sleeps on its mother's shoulder in the Munich hospital Reuters/Michaela Rehle

Studies have shown many times that breastfeeding renders the best results for growing babies up to two years of age. Breast milk is superior to infant formula and other types of food sources, helping babies develop mentally and physically. Find out more about the specifics on why doctors highly recommend breastfeeding for mothers.

1. Colostrum

Breast milk is primarily recommended by doctors especially during your baby's first few days of life because it contains colostrum. Colostrum, which cannot be found in commercial infant formula, is rich in antibodies which will make babies highly resistant to disease and infection, based on a report by NDRC.

2. Continued resistance

Breast milk has been shown to boost your baby's immune system until the time he reaches his teenage years. Breastfed children are less likely to develop diseases later in life such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes and multiple sclerosis, among others.

3. It is economical

Breastfeeding will help you save hundreds of dollars compared to buying milk formula. When your baby is highly resistant to infection and disease, you also save more cash by not having to purchase medications and hospitalization bills every now and then.

4. Easy storage

WebMD notes that breast milk can be safely used within two days if stored in a refrigerator. If you freeze breast milk, it will be good for consumption for as long as six months. Compared to bringing milk bottles and formula with you everywhere, you will find it more convenient to breastfeed instead.

5. Increased chances of survival

Breastfeeding is shown to increase the chances of survival among infants. Babies are less likely to suffer from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS when breastfed. In developing countries, according to UNICEF, babies who are breastfed are at least 10 times more likely to survive compared to those who are only fed formula.

Even mothers can benefit much from breastfeeding. It is shown to prevent osteoporosis as well as enhance weight loss after pregnancy. Mothers and babies bond better during the breastfeeding session which is also why child psychologists highly recommend the approach during the first few months of life.

For questions/comments regarding the article, you may email the writer at vdoctor@IBTIMES.com.au.