A new study has revealed that babies who are breastfed at least for the recommended six months have lower cholesterol levels in adulthood, which also cut their risk of contracting coronary artery disease.

According to researchers, early exposure to the high cholesterol content of human milk affects how one's body copes with cholesterol in the long-term.

"Initial breastfeeding, particularly when exclusive, is associated with lower blood cholesterol concentrations in later life, compared to initial formula feeding," The Daily Telegraph quoted lead author Dr Chris Owen as saying.

Dr Owen and colleagues at University of London came to the conclusion after analysing a data of over 17,000 adults in Britain – they found those who were breastfed exclusively had lower cholesterol than those only fed on formula milk.

According to Dr Owen, all women should breastfeed if they can because of the proven long-term health benefits. In fact, those who breastfeed have a lower risk of developing breast cancer and babies are also less likely to be obese.

"This study provides further proof that breastfeeding has long-term health benefits. Apart from its other effects, it appears to lower blood cholesterol in later life.

"The results also suggest that formula feeds should match the context of breast milk as closely as possible – any attempt to reduce the fat content of formula feeds could be counter-productive," he said.