As scientists have documented the importance of breast-feeding to a baby's current and future well-being, more American women are opting to breast-feed, says Jayne Charlamb, MD, director of breast health and breast-feeding medicine at Upstate. She says the majority of infants born in America receive some breast milk, but she and other experts would like more babies to be breast-fed for at least six months. Babies who are breast-fed have a lower risk of developing ear infections, some leukemias and obesity. In addition, breast-feeding helps mothers lose their pregnancy weight and adjust their glucose regulation.