If you can, breastfeed for at least 6 months

The normal development of a baby's microbiome starts at birth. Studies, however, suggest that babies might be exposed to some bacteria even before birth.

In the first two years of life, an infant's microbiome is constantly changing and is populated with advantageous Bifidobacteria, which can break down the sugars in breast milk. Numerous studies have demonstrated that newborns who are fed formula have a different microbiome and have fewer Bifidobacteria than infants who are breastfed. Furthermore, breastfeeding helps protect a baby from many illnesses. Breastfed babies have fewer health problems than babies who don't breastfeed. Breastfeeding is also linked to lower risks of obesity, allergies, and other health issues that may be brought on by differences in the gut microbiota.