Breastfeeding at 6 Months Improves IQ and Academic Skills
- New research indicates that breastfeeding for at least six months provides a significant boost too a child's cognitive growth,with benefits extending into adolescence.
- Researchers analyzed data from over 3,100 children born in the United Kingdom between 1994 and 1996.
- The research revealed that children who were breastfed for at least six months demonstrated higher IQ scores compared to those breastfed for shorter periods or not at all.
The Lasting Cognitive Benefits of Six Months of Breastfeeding
Table of Contents
Published September 1,2025
Long-Term Impact on Intelligence and Academic performance
New research indicates that breastfeeding for at least six months provides a significant boost too a child’s cognitive growth,with benefits extending into adolescence. A study published in JAMA Network Open on August 28, 2024, followed children from infancy to adolescence and found a clear correlation between the duration of breastfeeding and later academic achievement.
Researchers analyzed data from over 3,100 children born in the United Kingdom between 1994 and 1996. The study specifically focused on the impact of breastfeeding duration on IQ scores and academic performance at ages 5, 7, 10, and 14.
Key Findings: IQ and Test Scores
The research revealed that children who were breastfed for at least six months demonstrated higher IQ scores compared to those breastfed for shorter periods or not at all. Specifically, the study showed a statistically significant association between longer breastfeeding duration and improved scores on standardized tests taken throughout childhood and adolescence.The effect size,while moderate,was consistent across multiple age points.
The study controlled for a range of confounding factors, including the mother’s education level, family income, and the child’s genetic predisposition. This rigorous approach strengthens the conclusion that breastfeeding itself contributes to cognitive development, rather than simply being associated with other beneficial circumstances.
How Breastfeeding Supports Brain Development
Experts believe the cognitive benefits of breastfeeding stem from the unique composition of human milk. Breast milk contains long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (like DHA and ARA) crucial for brain growth and development. These fatty acids are essential building blocks for the brain and support optimal neuronal function.
Moreover, breast milk is rich in antibodies and other immune factors that protect the developing brain from inflammation and infection, both of which can negatively impact cognitive function. The close physical contact during breastfeeding also promotes emotional bonding, which is vital for healthy brain development.
implications for Parents and Public health
These findings reinforce the existing recommendations from organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to exclusively breastfeed infants for the first six months of life, if possible. The WHO recommends continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods for up to two years or beyond, recognizing the ongoing benefits for both mother and child.
While not all mothers are able to breastfeed, or choose not to, understanding the long-term cognitive advantages can empower families to make informed decisions. Support for breastfeeding mothers, including access to lactation consultants and workplace accommodations, remains crucial for maximizing the potential benefits for children’s development.