"Breast is best" has recently become a very popular saying. Breastfeeding has become a fad (which isn't a bad thing!). It is great that people are putting so much thought into naturally feeding their babies. There are so many different benefits to breastfeeding your baby.
Pediatricians recommend breastfeeding for at least a year. 77% of women will start out breastfeeding in the USA, but by 6 months only 47% are still breastfeeding. Only 25% of American women are breastfeeding at the recommended year mark.
Some women feel like they don't produce enough milk when they first give birth, but they usually are producing just enough! At first, colostrum is produced, it a very nutrient-rich substance that is very important for a newborn baby. A newborn baby's stomach is also the size of a cherry, this the 5-7 milliliters being produced at first is the perfect amount.
Breastmilk is actually a living substance. It contains antibodies, white blood cells, digestive enzymes, and it helps develop and strengthen the immune system for baby. It lowers both mother and baby's health risks. It also has over 300 MORE ingredients than formula.
It is also a money-saver (which is always a plus!). Breastfeeding can save an average of $2000-$4000 a year. It also burns 300-500 calories a day (hello weight loss!!). It also helps mom's uterus shrink back down to normal size and prevents too much blood loss. Another great benefit is the fact that breastfeeding releases oxytocin, otherwise known as the love hormone, for both mommy and baby. This gives both a natural high, relieves stress, and promotes bonding and relaxation.
One of my favorite facts about a mother's milk is the fact that it can change specifically to meet your baby's needs. Breasts can detect a one degree difference in the temperature of your baby, and it can cool down or warm up in order to adjust baby's temperature. In the summer, or when it is hot, Breastmilk will have more water in it to prevent dehydration for baby, and if the baby has a fever, Breastmilk will produce more water as well.
Baby's who breastfeed are typically smarter and healthier. They are less likely to be picky eaters because they can subtly taste what mom eats when they breastfeed. They are less likely to be allergic to some food items the longer they breastfeed as well.
Breastfeeding is a completely natural and beautiful thing. I plan on exclusively breastfeeding for as long as possible. Hopefully 'as long as possible' will be at least six months or so (a year would be amazing though). I know it will be hard, especially since I will be working, but it won't be impossible.
If one can breastfeed, I think she should. I understand though that some women are just unable to breastfeed, and they have to use formula. Formula has come a long way, and many babies are just fine using formula. Science is truly amazing, and I'm glad that people who can't breastfeed are doing what is best for their baby.
I got through one informative blog post, I feel like I learned a lot from looking up resources and reading other blogs. Hopefully you learned something you didn't know before!(:
xx
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