Breastfeeding has multiple benefits, some of these include mother and child bonding, nutritional support and an overall healthier baby. Breastfeeding is healthy for both mother and child. Breast milk contains antibodies, these antibodies protect the baby from getting sick, typed of germs and even sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS. Breast milk can lower the risk of ear infections, atopic dermatits, asthma, type 1 diabetes, leukemia, necrotizing enterocolitis and respiratory infections. Breastfeeding can help protect the mother from postpartum depression or PPD, breast cancer, type 2 diabetes and ovarian cancer. As you can see the health impact is tremendous.
Colostrum, a thick, yellowish fluid secreted from breast during pregnancy as well as the first few days after birth is packed with nutrients and antibodies. This fluid will give your baby it’s best start. Your baby will only get a small amount of colostrum but it will match it’s tiny little stomach.
Around day 3 to 5 after birth your milk starts to change as babys needs start to change. Your breast milk will become thinner, there will be more fat, protein and sugar to help your baby as it begins to grow. At this time there is still tons of antibodies and nutrients to help protect the infant. Breast milk not only contains vital components to keep your child healthy, it is much easier to digest than cows milk and baby formula.
Breast feeding can save you a lot of money. Anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000. Not to mention breastfeeding is much easier than mixing formula. Saving money is always a good thing when you have a child, they can be quite an expense. You can also offset extra medical bills by having a healthier baby, as well as save on the emotional expense of not having to worry.
When you breastfeed it requires you to spend some quality time with your child. Infants are like tiny little sponges that take in a wide variety of new feelings, emotions and experiences. When you breastfeed your child it makes them feel relaxed, safe and secure. A benefit of breastfeeding for the mother is self-confidence as well as an enhanced bond with their baby. Breastfeeding will also satisfy an infants hunger almost instantly.
As you can see there are multiple benefits to breastfeeding that should not be discouraged. Always consult with your doctor but in most cases breastfeeding your child is usually the best way to have a happy and healthy baby. In come situations mothers have to use formula, but for most they are equipped with everything they need naturally.