-
Consumer Health: Benefits of breastfeeding beyond infancy
Share this:
Breastfeeding beyond infancy
Breastfeeding beyond infancy benefits mother and baby. For children, this may include balanced nutrition, boosted immunity and improved health. For mothers, breastfeeding longer may include improved health and reduced risk of illnesses such as breast and ovarian cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months after birth and breastfeeding in combination with solid foods until at least age 1. Worldwide, babies are weaned on average between ages 2 and 4. How long you breastfeed is up to you and your baby. Here's what you need to know about the benefits of breastfeeding beyond infancy.
***
Also in today's tips ...
Don't get tricked by these 3 heart-healthy diet myths
Heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death in the U.S. The food that you eat can play a major role in your risk of developing heart disease. But three popular nutrition myths could steer you down the wrong path. Learn about the role of coconut oil, eggs and omega-3 supplements in your heart-healthy diet.
Slideshow: Types of dermatitis
Dermatitis is a general term that describes a skin irritation. Dermatitis is a common condition that has many causes and occurs in many forms. It usually involves itchy, dry skin or a rash on swollen, reddened skin. Or it may cause the skin to blister, ooze, crust or flake off. Check out this slideshow for more information on seven types of dermatitis.
Detox diets: Do they work?
There are many detox diets and the specifics vary. Typically, a period of fasting is followed by a strict diet of raw vegetables, fruit and fruit juices, and water. In addition, some detox diets advocate using herbs and other supplements, along with colon cleansing to empty the intestines. While these diets are popular — and some people report feeling more focused and energetic during and after — there's little evidence that detox diets eliminate toxins from your body. Learn more from Katherine Zeratsky, a Mayo Clinic registered dietitian nutritionist.
Are electronic cigarettes a safe smoking alternative?
Using electronic cigarettes, known as vaping, is an increasingly popular alternative to smoking regular cigarettes. You may have heard that this is a safer, healthier choice, but there's no scientific evidence to support that claim, and experts warn of health risks. Here's what you need to know about e-cigarettes and vaping.
Share this:
Related articles
ROCHESTER, Minn. — Patients who received the anticoagulant drug warfarin after bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement had lower incidence of mortality and a decreased risk of ...
ROCHESTER, Minn. — Heart failure is a potentially urgent health concern for young adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) that is often overlooked and undertreated, ...
Mayo Clinic doctors are using innovation to improve the lives of people who suffer from congestive heart failure and other chronic heart conditions. The Organ ...