Are there any benefits for my baby while I breastfeed?
By breastfeeding, your baby will experience greater health, including:
- lower rates of gastrointestinal & respiratory illnesses which require hospitalization
- less likely to develop Type 1 Diabetes in childhood
- lower risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Your breastfed baby will also experience greater long-term benefits:
- lower blood pressure`
- lower cholesterol
- less likely to develop Type 2 Diabetes
- higher performance on intelligence testing
Are there any benefits for Moms that breastfeed??
The National Institutes of Health reviewed more than 9,000 study abstracts to conclude that women who didn't breasteed or who stopped breasteeding early on, had a higher risk of postpartum depression.
Many women report feeling relaxed while breasteeding. That's because nursing triggers the release of the hormone oxytocin. Numerous studies in animals and humans have found that oxytocin promotes nurturing and relaxation. (Oxytocin released while nursing also helps your uterus contract after birth, resulting in less postpartum bleeding.)
Breastfeeding also has health benefits for the mother, including a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer compared to women who do not breasteed.
Feeding time is also designed to encourage your baby's reception of positive activities such as studying your face, exchanging expressions with you and sharing verbal cues. Not only does this deepen the attachment between the two of you, but much of your baby's early verbal, emotional and social learning is meant to occur during this focused time.
Is it cheaper to breastfeed?
Breastfeeding is cost saving for the family and the community. If you mostly nurse and use formula only in a pinch, you should be able to pocket at least an extra $400 in your baby's first year. That's even if you buy a breast pump!
Travel can be easier too. Stuck in a plane for hours? Your baby will never run out of food!
