Whether you have a toddler or a teen, nutrition is important to his or her physical and mental development. Protein nutrition is what children need, no matter the age.

Babies – during this stage of life, it’s almost all about the milk – whether it’s breast milk, formula, or a combination of the two. Milk contains protein, which is critical for stable growth of babies.

Breast milk will provide practically every nutrient a baby needs for the first year of life. At about six months most babies are ready to start solid foods like protein-fortified infant cereal soft strained fruits and tender vegetables.

Sometimes, an individual’s breast milk may not provide enough iron and zinc when babies are around six to nine months, fortified cereals and meats can help breastfeeding babies in particular.

 Breast milk is the optimal nutrient mix for infants. It’s full of good stuff like primary proteins antibodies, antimicrobial factors, enzymes, and anti-inflammatory factors along with fatty acids (which promote optimal brain development).

Breastfeeding keeps the baby developing and growing properly, helps infants fight off disease (such as gastrointestinal and respiratory infections) both now and in the future, and may even ensure that the baby grows up to prefer healthy food.

Because breastfeeding stimulates the release of beneficial hormones such as oxytocin and prolactin, it can help the mother lose weight and bond with her baby.

Leadership, Pg. 19.