Children who are breast fed during early life generally have high IQ levels, according to a latest research study. Researchers conducted studies on 14,000 babies by dividing them into two groups based on their breast feeding habits. They tracked these babies for the next 6 years to find their intelligence levels. Children in the first group (Breast fed babies) have 5 points higher IQ levels and performing better in academic exams. This research study was published in the Archives of General Psychiatry. In the study, children who are breast fed for longer duration (more than 5 months) performed better in the intelligence tests than those children who breast fed for shorter duration.  According to WHO (World Health Organisation) guidelines, babies should receive only breast milk during their first six months of life. But many mothers are not stopping breast feeding their babies after 3-4 months due to modern work life, lack of awareness and cosmetic purposes (rich mothers). Smartness of a baby is directly related to how much duration a mother breastfed their baby. So mothers should know that their babies’ intelligence is in your hands. Nutrients in breast milk (Omega fatty acids) will enhance babies’ intelligence levels and reduce health problems in childhood. Cholesterol in the breast milk is good for child’s brain. Breast feeding reduces future risk of developing diabetes and hypertension and reduces infections and digestive problems in the childhood. Note: Organisations should allow mothers to take maternity leave for 6 months.   … [Read more...]