Breastfed babies aren’t only healthier and have stronger immune systems, but studies have shown that breastfed bubs are smarter too. JAMA Pediatrics Journal just published their latest research concluding that breastfed babies score higher on IQ test later in life.
“We should do whatever we can do to help women carry out their decision to breast feed,” said Dr. Mandy Belfort, the study’s lead author and a neonatologist at Boston Children Hospital.
More than 1,300 mothers and their babies joined the research group. As for the result, each additional month of breastfeeding correlates with a 0.3 point increase in IQ by age 3 and 0.5 point increased by age 7.
Plus, the study also shows that breastfed babies have a lower risk of infant health conditions like diarrhea and ear infections, as well as adult ones like diabetes and obesity. Now, almost ¾ mothers around the world are starting breastfeeding their babies, and nearly 50% continue breastfeeding babies for 6 months and more.
Researches believe that the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, has a lot to contribute to the child’s cognitive development, which is why leading companies like Mead Johnson supplement their baby milk formulas with the fatty acids. But the scientific evidence for doing so is still mixed, with some studies suggesting it has positive effects on brain development and others failing to confirm the benefits.
So, if you’re hoping to raise a genius in the near future, you know what to do!(Source)
