While breastfeeding rates dipped in the 20th century due to the advent of baby formula, in recent years they’ve begun to increase again — to the benefit of both infants and mothers. Babies are physically designed to be breastfed, so it only makes sense that they are.

In a video shared on Facebook by Amytime - The Healthy Breastfeeder, we can see how that’s the case. First, an infant’s tongue is large compared to the rest of the mouth, which increases contact with breast milk — the child’s ultimate goal. A baby’s tongue is cushioned on either side by fat reserves in the cheeks, what’s commonly referred to as “baby fat” or “chubby cheeks.” Fat pads in the cheeks allow the baby’s tongue to remain in place while sucking, and prevent the cheeks from sinking in.

In addition to the physicality of the mouth, babies’ upper airways are equipped to enhance breastfeeding. The epiglottis is a small flap of cartilage that covers the baby’s windpipe and prevents milk from going into the airway; instead, the milk is directed to the esophagus.

Breastfeeding rates are likely increasing due to the myriad of evidence that has proven it’s healthy and strengthening for both baby and mother. For example, research has shown that breastfeeding an infant for over six months is linked to a lower chance of childhood leukemia, as well as an improved immune system and gut microbiome. One 2015 study even found that babies who had been breastfed for over 12 months had higher IQ scores and made more money by the time they were 30, hinting that breast milk can enhance a baby’s brainpower. For mothers who breastfeed, they experience health benefits too: including lower depression risk, as well as a reduced risk of some cancers.

“[B]abies who are breastfed have lower risks of ear and gastrointestinal infections, diabetes and obesity, and mothers who breastfeed have lower risks of breast and ovarian cancers,” CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden said in a press release. “Also, breastfeeding lowers healthcare costs.”