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Breastfeeding

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<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/175551324981520200123-taal-breatsmilk-letting-taguig-md-6027.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Mothers collect breast milk during a milk-letting event in Taguig City. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News/File</div>Every year, August is celebrated as National Breastfeeding Month in the Philippines. The Department of Health is mandated by Senate Bill No. 2026 to lead different sectors in promoting breastfeeding, which is considered as the best source of nutrition for most infants. Local celebrities also play a big role in spreading awareness, with the likes of <a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/2020/8/7/fresh-scoops/anne-curtis-speaks-up-on-the-importance-of-breastf-45631">Anne Curtis</a>, <a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/2023/9/5/angelica-iza-solenn-hopia-share-their-best-bonding-moments-with-their-babies-1039">Solenn Heussaff, and Angelica Panganiban</a> sharing their breastfeeding journeys with their fans on social media. Back in 2023, Heussaff said breastfeeding has been a challenging yet rewarding experience. &quot;Clogged ducts, breast pain, sleepless nights, endless questions and self doubts are just a fraction of what you will feel. But these moments are everything. The bond is greater than any you will ever encounter,&quot; the actress said as she joined in celebrating National Breastfeeding Month. <div>Why breast milk?</div>According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a mother&#x27;s breast milk is not just safe and clean -- it also contains antibodies that help protect against common childhood illnesses such as gastrointestinal infections. The United Nations&#x27; specialized health agency has recommended exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first six months of life. This means no other food or liquid, even water, should be provided. Even as babies start to slowly eat solid food at 6 months, breastfeeding is still encouraged as it remains a major source of energy and nutrients. The WHO said breast milk can provide half or more of a child&#x27;s energy needs until 12 months old, and one-third between 12 and 24 months. Children and adolescents who were breastfed are also said to do better on intelligence tests and school attendance, and even have <a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/lifestyle/06/22/16/breastfeeding-linked-to-better-childhood-behavior-study">better behavior</a>. They are also less likely to be overweight, obese, or prone to diabetes later in life. Moms who feed their babies with breast milk, meanwhile, have a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers.<div>What about formula?</div><div></div>Formula feeding is not inherently bad -- it is actually a healthy way to feed babies in cases where breastfeeding is not possible. It&#x27;s convenient as formula can be fed by anyone at any time, not just the mother. Another thing is it&#x27;s not as restrictive -- breastfeeding can pass on tiny amounts of what moms eat or drink, so they have to be more careful about what they put in their bodies. But in the end, breast milk is superior and can&#x27;t be duplicated. Mothers are encouraged to give breastfeeding a try before resorting to formula -- but if they can&#x27;t, they should not be judged for it. Parents are also advised to be wary of what they feed their babies, amid <a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/spotlight/02/16/23/most-baby-formula-health-claims-not-backed-by-science-study">misleading claims</a> by some companies about formula and breast milk supplements and other related products.&quot;To the mamas who truly tried their best but breastfeeding didn&#x27;t work for them, you do you. Making sure your baby is nourished is what matters the most,&quot; Curtis told her social media followers back in 2020 as she marked National Breastfeeding Month.

Every year, August is celebrated as National Breastfeeding Month in the Philippines.

Every year, August is celebrated as National Breastfeeding Month in the Philippines.

August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month: Why is breast milk important?

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August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month: Why is breast milk important?

ABS-CBN News

Published Aug 19, 2025 09:00 AM PHT

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