Breast Feeding Linked to Higher IQ

Breast Feeding Linked to Higher IQ

From a study done at the University of Kentucky, reported in the Associated Press comes the results showing a link between breast feeding and child intelligence. The report states, “At least 60% of the average intelligence gain seen in breast-fed infants comes from breast milk’s nutritional value.”

Researcher James Anderson reviewed 20 different studies comparing brain development in breast-fed infants to those fed formula. He states, “Our study confirms that breast-feeding is accompanied by a about a five-points higher IQ than in bottle-fed infants.” He goes on to say, “Our best estimates are that maternal bonding and the decision to breast feed account for about 40 percent of the increase, but that 60 percent is related to the actual nutritional value of the breast milk.”