According to American Academy of Pediatrics, breastfeeding is associated with reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome by 50 percent! The protective factor of breastfeeding increases with exclusivity. The longer you breastfeed the better, but any amount of breastfeeding is better than none. Mothers should breastfeed exclusively, which means not offering any formula or other nonhuman milk based supplements, for at least six months.
REMEMBER: Breastfeeding reduces the risk of SIDS by 50%!
Breastfeeding your infant decreases infections, especially diarrhea and respiratory infections which are associated with an increased vulnerability to SIDS. Breast milk contains maternal antibodies, micronutrients, and special proteins that promote immune system benefits.
It is important to breastfeed SAFELY. You can breastfeed your baby in your bed at night, but be sure to place your baby back in their own separate sleep area when you are finished. This reduces the possibility of you accidentally falling asleep with your baby! Also, avoid breastfeeding on a couch or recliner when you are tired.
You should also avoid drinking alcohol as much as possible if you are breastfeeding. If you do choose to drink alcohol, wait a minimum of two hours after one beverage to breastfeed, in order for the alcohol to leave your system. Caffeine on the other hand will not harm your baby, but it is recommended that you drink a moderate amount of caffeinated beverages if you are breastfeeding.