Breast milk contains a high concentration of nutritious components that are easily absorbed by your baby, as well as antioxidants, enzymes, immunological characteristics, and active antibodies.
This article discusses the physical and mental health benefits of nursing for both mother and child.
The pros of breastfeeding for baby
- Breastfed newborns have better immune systems.
- Diarrhoea, constipation, gastroenteritis, gastroesophageal reflux, and premature necrotising enterocolitis are all reduced by breastfeeding.
- Babies who are breastfed have fewer colds and respiratory disorders such as pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and whooping cough.
- Breastfed babies have fewer ear infections.
- Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) rates are lower in breastfed babies
The pros of breastfeeding for mom
- Breastfeeding produces the naturally soothing hormones oxytocin and prolactin that promote stress reduction and positive feelings in the nursing mother.
- Breastfeeding makes travel easier. Breast milk is always clean and at the right temperature.
- Physical/emotional bonding between mother and child is increased. Breastfeeding promotes more skin-to-skin contact, more holding and stroking. Many feel that affectionate bonding during the first years of life helps reduce social and behavioural problems in both children and adults.
- Breastfeeding burns extra calories, so it can help you lose pregnancy weight faster.
- Breastfeeding mothers learn to read their baby’s cues and babies learn to trust caregivers. This helps shape a baby’s early behaviour.
When breastfeeding isn’t an option
You and your baby are unique, and the decision to breastfeed is up to you. Some moms struggle to breastfeed, others choose not to breastfeed. For moms who can’t breastfeed or who decide not to, infant formula is a healthy alternative. Formula provides babies with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive.
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