This article describes the numerous physical and mental health benefits for both mother and child when it comes to breastfeeding.
* Breast milk provides optimal nutrition for babies. It has the right amount of nutrients, is easily digested, and is readily available.
* The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding until 2 years old or longerTrusted Source because the benefits continue that long.
1. Breast milk provides ideal nutrition for babies Most healthcare professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for at least 6 months or much longer.
2. Breast milk contains important antibodies Breast milk is loaded with antibodies that help your baby fight off viruses and bacteria, which is critical in those tender, early months.
3. Breastfeeding may reduce disease risk Exclusive breastfeedingTrusted Source, meaning that the infant receives only breast milk, is particularly beneficial.
4. Breast milk promotes baby’s healthy weight Breastfeeding promotes healthy weight gain and helps prevent childhood obesity.
5. Breastfeeding may make children smarter may help baby ace those tests. Some studiesTrusted Source suggest there may be a difference in brain development between breastfed and formula-fed babies.
6. Breastfeeding may help you lose weight You may have heard this one often. While some women seem to gain weight during breastfeeding
7. Breastfeeding helps the uterus contract During pregnancy, your uterus grows immensely, expanding from the size of a pear to filling almost the entire space of your abdomen.
8. Mothers who breastfeed have a lower risk for depression Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that can develop shortly after childbirth.
9. Breastfeeding reduces your disease risk seems to provide you with long-term protectionTrusted Source against cancer and several diseases.
10. Breastfeeding may prevent menstruation Continued breastfeeding also pauses ovulation and menstruation. menstrual cycles may actually be nature’s way of ensuring there’s some time between pregnancies.
11. It saves time and money To top the list, breastfeeding is mostly free, barring expenses for any lactation consulting and breast pumps.
12. Breast milk is always at the right temperature and ready to drink. Vitamin D drops are usually recommended.