The Benefits of Breastfeeding (Part 1)

The Benefits of Breastfeeding (Part 1)

Today I…decided to recall some of the highlights from the breastfeeding class I took last night. So influential and informative! I don’t know if you’re a mom, going to be a a new mom, going to be a future mom, or hoping that things stay the way they are for as long as possible…but I thought I’d share some valuable information on breastfeeding.

Yes, I have decided that I am going to breastfeed as LONG as possible. Before yesterday’s class, I’ve only partly seen some friends breastfeed, but had no idea of what that entailed. So here’s what I learned… (All info can be found on kp.org)

Breastfeeding quote

• promotes bonding and attachment
• presents food that is always ready to feed at the right temperature
• provides antibodies to strengthen the immune system
• provides good cholesterol and other types of fat in human milk that support the growth of nerve tissue and brain growth
• promotes visual acuity
• promotes healthy jaw and tooth development and reduces the risk of cavities
• supports your child’s intelligence (meaning higher IQ’s than formula-fed babies)
• reduces the risk of infections and promotes healthy bacteria in the digestive system
• thousands of dollars cheaper than formula

• promotes bonding and attachment, calmness, self-esteem, and confidence in mothering
• produces the naturally soothing hormones oxytocin and prolactin (the hormone of “motherly love”)
• helps your body recover from pregnancy, labor, and birth
• helps your uterus contract after birth, lessening the change of hemorrhage and anemia
• lowers the risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer
• may protect you against osteoporosis in later life
• may help you lose weight, by burning calories to make milk (about 500 calories a day)

Breastfeeding Benefits for the Environment:

Artificial feeding involves…

• overgrazing of land by cattle
• use of chemical fertilizers to grow the soy
• use of valuable environmental resources for formula production
• packaging and transportation of the product
• use of water and fuel for mixing the product, heating it, and for cleaning bottles and nipples
• waste disposal of cans, bottles, accessories, cartons, etc.

*More information on the value of breastfeeding can also be found on the American Academy of Pediatrics Website

Original article and pictures take secure.gravatar.com site