New Study Reveals Powerful Benefits of Longer Term Breastfeeding
Parenthood is a mix of late-night feedings, long days, and countless moments of figuring it all out as you go. Feeding your baby—whether through breastfeeding, pumping, or formula—is one of the biggest parts of this journey.
At Sleeping Little Angels in Tampa Bay, we believe every parent deserves encouragement and support, no matter what feeding path works best for your family. Still, research continues to show that breastfeeding offers unique benefits worth celebrating—for both babies and parents. And the beautiful part? Even a little bit can make a difference.
Benefits of Breastmilk
Breast milk is often called “liquid gold” for a reason. It provides:
Health benefits for parents: Breastfeeding can reduce the risk of certain health conditions and support postpartum recovery.
Tailored nutrition: Your body produces milk with the right balance of nutrients for your baby’s stage of growth.
Immune support: Antibodies in breast milk help protect your little one from illness.
Bonding time: The skin-to-skin contact and closeness of breastfeeding nurture emotional connection.
What the Research Shows: A New Study
A 2025 study of more than 570,000 Israeli children offered one of the clearest pictures yet of breastfeeding’s impact. Researchers found that babies who were breastfed for at least six months—especially exclusively—had a significantly lower risk of developmental delays in areas like language, motor skills, and social milestones.
Even when comparing siblings within the same family, those who were breastfed longer showed stronger developmental outcomes. This large-scale study reinforces what many smaller studies have suggested for years: breastfeeding can offer meaningful, long-term benefits.
Every Family, Every Journey
While science highlights breastfeeding’s benefits, it’s important to remember: feeding is never one-size-fits-all. Many families use a combination of breast milk and formula, and some rely fully on formula. What matters most is that your baby is loved, nourished, and cared for.
Beyond the Individual: A Call for Group Support
The research is a wake-up call for society, not only for parents.
Policy Gaps:
- Only 25% of nations provide 6+ months of paid parental leave.
Workplace Obstacles:
- Only 40% of American companies offer lactation facilities.
Aggressive advertisements erode breastfeeding confidence.
How We Can Alter This
- Advocate for paid leave (for all parents)
- Request private, sanitary pumping areas in companies
- Celebrate public breastfeeding—no more concealed shawls or guilt
Useful Advice for the Breastfeeding Journey
- Get Early Help
Lactation experts can address low supply or latch problems. - Smarter Pumps
Portable wearables allow multitasking—because parenting never ends. - Mix Feeding?
Consider supplementing with formula while maintaining skin-to-skin contact, and don’t feel guilty. - Mental Health First
The well-being of a stressed parent is as important as milk production.
Your Love Is the Constant: The Bigger Pictur
Whether you breastfeed your child for days, months, or not at all, milk alone does not set their potential.
- Responsive attention
- Play
- Your constant presence
…help development flourish.
Dr. Ukachi Emeruwa, a maternal health expert, reminds us:
“Milestones are important, but so is the village raising the child.”
The aim is support, not perfection.
Every Family, Every Journey
While science highlights breastfeeding benefits, it’s important to remember: feeding is never one-size-fits-all. Many families use a combination of breast milk and formula, and some rely fully on formula. What matters most is that your baby is loved, nourished, and cared for.
Support in Tampa Bay
- La Leche League Florida – Peer-to-peer breastfeeding support – in person meeting in Tampa or virtual options available!
- Postpartum Support International – Mental health resources
- Workplace Advocacy Tools – Lactation accommodation request forms
Need breastfeeding or bottle feeding support? Contact Beata for a free consultation!
