Advantages of Breastfeeding

Health experts around the world promote the advantages of breastfeeding.  It is likely you have heard about the adage that says “Breast Milk is Best for Baby” in infomercials and other types of media. This is to remind new and modern moms that although infant milk formulas that promise good health for your child are becoming more and more popular, they do not surpass the advantages of breastfeeding and the health benefits it can bring you and your child.

Advantages of Breastfeeding for Baby

Breast milk is easily digested, best tolerated and this is basically all your baby needs to grow for the first six months of life.  With its perfect balance of nutrients, you are assured of your baby’s health.

Research has shown that breast-fed babies enjoy a healthier life than bottle-fed babies.  This is because breast milk contains natural antibodies that protect your baby from infections, illnesses, and allergies while enhancing his/her cognitive and social development.  

By breastfeeding, you reduce your child’s risk of many illnesses such as childhood diabetes, respiratory infections, gastroenteritis, urinary infections, ear infections, eczema, asthma, obesity, leukemia and many others.  It has also been found to help reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).  

It generally enhances your child’s immune system to help his/her young body fight diseases.  This immunity foundation allows your baby to enjoy a healthy life not only in his childhood but also later in life.

Advantages of Breastfeeding for Mom

Breastfeeding is not only beneficial to your baby but also for you.  It helps reduce the risk of breast cancer, uterine cancer, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, and osteoporosis.  It also promotes emotional health after one month postpartum, decreases the insulin requirement in diabetic women, and helps moms significantly lose weight after a pregnancy.

The best thing about breastfeeding is the special bond you create with your child and the sense of achievement to see your child grow and enjoy a healthy life because of something only you can provide.

The longer you breastfeed, the greater the health benefits will be for you and your baby.  The World Health Organization recommends that you exclusively breastfeed your baby for the first six months then gradually introduce solid foods and may continue breastfeeding until twelve months of age.

Freelance Contributor: Hazel Zanoria