What are the breastfeeding benefits for mother and baby?
You must have heard a lot about the importance of breastfeeding. So, what are the benefits of breastfeeding to you the nursing mom? And what are the benefits of breastfeeding for your baby? Detailed answers are in this article.
Breastfeeding benefits for the mother
- Lowering the risk of certain cancers
Studies have shown that women who breastfeed have a lower risk of getting breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Breastfeeding decreases Estrogen levels, which can help in preventing cancer. The longer you breastfeed and the more children you nurse, the higher your protection from those cancers.
- Weight loss postpartum
When you breastfeed, you burn 400 to 500 calories, which will help you get back in shape faster after having a baby.
- Flattening the postpartum belly
Breastfeeding stimulates the production of Oxytocin that causes contractions which help the uterus go back to its pre-pregnancy size. This will give you the flat belly you wanted a lot faster, this is great news, especially for moms who just had a c-section.
- Decreasing the chance of postpartum depression
Skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding stimulate the production of Oxytocin, also known as the happiness hormone. Holding your baby, and bonding with him or her will give you happiness and love which can easily prevent and treat postpartum depression.
- Saving money
This overlooked benefit is probably the best during tough economic times. Breast milk is 100% FREE!
- Saving time and effort
Breast milk is not only free but also always available, at the right temperature.
Benefits of breastfeeding for babies
- Stronger immunity
Breast milk and colostrum are rich in antibodies and immunity-enhancing elements. Breast milk color alters when the baby is sick as it becomes therapeutic.
- Stimulating brain development
Many studies have shown that breastfeeding stimulates brain development, it also enhances cognitive abilities as well.
- Digestive system development
- Lowering the risk of childhood obesity
Babies who exclusively feed on formula, are more prone to childhood and adult obesity. Formula milk contains sugar, which significantly increases the baby’s weight. Also, baby bottles are one of the causes behind overfeeding, due to the strong flow, compared to breastfeeding which only provides the needed amount of milk.
- Emotional stability
Babies who breastfeed are calmer and cry less, this is due to the decrease in stress they have. This emotional comfort is provided by breastfeeding and physical proximity to the mom.
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