Breastfeeding Advantages
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Breastfeeding is extremely important for new mothers and their newborn babies. It provides numerous benefits for both the baby and the mother. Organizations recommend breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months of life and at least for one or two or more years. The advantages include the following:
Provides the perfect nutrients for your child
Your breast milk is made for your child. As such, it contains exactly what your baby needs to live and thrive. It contains protein, vitamins and fat to keep your baby healthy. It is also more easily digestible than formula.
Lowers the chances of infection and illness
Breastfeeding lowers the chances of your baby developing an infection or other illness. This even includes SIDS. This is very important since newborns are so vulnerable. It lowers the risk of respiratory diseases, diarrhea and ear infections. This translates to less doctor and hospital visits.
Helps with brain development
Breastfeeding has been correlated to increased IQ. It can help the baby grow and develop properly.
Promotes bonding
Breastfeeding promotes bonding between the mother and the baby. There is something very special about holding your baby close and providing nutrition.
Helps mothers lose weight
It can be extremely challenging to lose the baby weight. Many women find that they do not simply bounce back after giving birth. Because you use calories when you are nursing, this can help promote weight loss. The weight just comes off since they are spending the energy on nursing.
Saves money
Formula can be extremely pricey, especially because you use it for so long. Parents who use formula also incur the cost of bottles, nipples, cleaning, liners formula containers and more. This can add up considerably during the infancy. Also, breastfeeding mothers do not have to spend the time to prepare the formula or worry about lugging it with them.
Lowers cancer risk of the mother
Breastfeeding actually provides health benefits to the mother. A mother who breastfeeds incurs a lower risk of ovarian and breast cancer. Osteoporosis may also be less likely.
There is no doubt that breastfeeding is far superior to formula. Some women have difficulty breastfeeding, but most can do so successfully if they get help from sources such as lactation consultants and breastfeeding support groups. They may simply need to keep with it. Mother and child will enjoy these benefits not just for the length of breastfeeding, but for a lifetime.