Breast milk gives babies a healthy start. It contains all the nutrients newborns need during the first six months of life, including easily absorbed proteins, fats, and vitamins as well as live antibodies from the mother’s immune system. The antibodies protect babies from germs and infection, causing fewer instances of indigestion, diarrhea, and constipation. Other possible health benefits for breastfed babies include a reduced number of ear infections, respiratory illnesses, food allergies, and lower rates of sudden infant death syndrome. Additionally, breast milk contains critical nutrients that aid in brain development, nerve growth, and epidermal growth factors.