Are Breastfed Babies Smarter?

http://pagingdrgupta.blogs.cnn.com/2010/12/20/are-breast-fed-babies-smarter/


This is such an interesting study, I had to share it! Now, I'm sure some of you are reading this and getting defensive: "My kid is smart, and I didn't breastfed them"....I can hear it already! Yes, there are alot of variables, and this is certainly not a "perfect" study, but hear me out...

Of course, breastfeeding you child will not guarantee an acceptance into Harvard, but it will do plenty:

1. Breastfed babies are less likely to become obese or develop diabetes later in life compared to their formula-fed counterparts.
2. Breastfed babies are less likely to be sick - including ear infections, flu, colds, etc. - due to the immune-boosting agents in the breastmilk.
3. Breastfed babies are less likely to have colic, constipation/diarrhea, GI problems, etc.,  since breastmilk is easily digested, and cow's milk is not.
4. Due the constant contact and bonding with Mom, breastfed babies are typically better self-soothers, easy-going, adaptable and independant, making it easier for the care-givers to teach and play with baby.

Maybe the reason these breastfed babies end up smarter, is because they are less sick, less likely to miss school, less likely to have a suppressed immune system and fatigue and are less stressed about being away from parents when at school.

Just my thoughts on the subject...