If you are a new mom-to-be, one of the most important decisions you have
to make is to how to feed your child. While breastfeeding remains to be
a personal choice, there is no denying its many benefits, especially for
your child’s health. In fact, several medical authorities and organizations
including the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommend breastfeeding
your child since breast milk has the perfect mix of nutrients necessary
for your child’s growth and future health.
Below are some of the benefits your child can get from breastfeeding:
- Reduces incidents of pneumonia, colds, viruses, and infections
- Long-term protection from chronic conditions such as diabetes and Crohn’s disease
- Lowers your child’s risk of sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS
- Reduces child’s risks of obesity
- Decrease your baby’s risk of some childhood cancers
- Lowers your baby’s risk of having asthma or allergies
The constant touching and eye contact between you and your baby can also
help strengthen your bond with each other and make your baby feel more
secured. It is also a great way to learn about your baby’s different
responses and cues.
Breastfeeding is Beneficial to Mothers as well
When you decide to breastfeed, not only is your child getting a healthy
start that lasts a lifetime, you also get to enjoy several health benefits.
The following are some of these health benefits:
- Burns calories and can help you lose your pregnancy weight
- Can speed up post-delivery healing
- Lowers risk of premenopausal breast and ovarian cancer
- Reduces stress levels and your risk of postpartum depression
- An effective post-baby birth control option
Breastfeeding can also help you save time, money, and energy from buying
and preparing formula, nipples, and bottles.
Every woman's journey to motherhood is different and the decision to
breastfeed is solely up to you. But if you want to make an investment
for your child’s future, you lose nothing in choosing to breastfeed.
This article contains general information about medical conditions and
treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as
such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis
of a physician.
If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should
consult your doctor or other professional healthcare providers.