Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding

The best decision you can make for your child is breastfeeding from birth. It’s not only the way God intended it to be but it’s also the healthiest for both you and your baby. Here’s a list of reasons you should breast feed.

Benefits of Breastfeeding
1. Bonding. This is the perfect opportunity to bond with
your baby.
2. Baby receives antibodies for immune support.
3. Breast milk is easy to digest, resulting in less digestive
problems and colic for baby.
4. Less chance of allergies & obesity.
5. Reduces risk of ear infections, diabetes and cancer.
6. Reduces mother’s risk of breast cancer.
7. 98% effective contraception when baby is continually
nursed.
8. Comforting to baby- sucking reduces anxiety and they hear
your heartbeat which is a familiar sound.
9. It’s Free! Save $3000 your baby’s first year.
10. Mother loses weight by burning more calories.
11. Helps uterus return to normal size.
12. Reduces risk of ovarian and uterine cancers in mother.
13. Releases prolactin and oxytocin in mom to help her
relax.
14. Skin to skin contact helps baby feel secure.
15. No purchasing, measuring, mixing or warming bottles.
16. Ready when baby is at just the right temperature.
17. Easy traveling.
18. Environmentally friendly, no packaging waste.
19. You have two! No need for artificial nipples.
20. You can do it ANYWHERE ANYTIME.
21. Breast milk doesn’t stain.
22. Diapers don’t stink like formula fed babies.
23. Adequate supply and quantity- never run out until you’re ready.
24. Nipple is perfectly designed for baby’s mouth. Artificial nipples can have negative effects on growing mouths.
25. Baby controls flow.
26. Shown to improve children’s IQ and intellect.
27. Induces baby to sleep.
28. Breast milk helps baby pass meconium.
29. Lower risk of SIDS.
30. Breast milk contains the perfect combination of protein, fat and carbohydrates.
31. Breast milk tastes sweet and much better than bland formula.
32. Provides pain relief for baby's bruises and owies.
33. Less spit up.
34. Antibacterial. You can use it on anyone's cuts or wounds.
35. It's natural. No artificial ingredients, no genetically engineered products, no synthetic growth hormones.
36. Babies have less tooth decay and better tooth and jaw development from sucking. It takes more energy to suck the milk than a bottle that drips into the mouth.
37. It's what God intended, that is why you have breasts!

Breastfeeding comes naturally to many new moms, however if you are experiencing pain or problems get help before deciding to quit. If you’re having trouble there are many lactation consultants and organizations eager to help. Contact your local pediatrician or the lache league for further information and troubleshooting tips.

Frequently Asked Questions:
How long should I breastfeed?
Do it as long as you can. Breastfeeding for any length of time will have benefits. Many moms quit after 6 months, but ideally it’s best to do it as long as your child wants it. They will wean themselves when they’re ready. Breastfeeding into toddler age may get you some stares but who cares.. your giving your child the best meal on the planet. Take advantage of it.

Do I have to eat certain foods or avoid anything?
You can probably just keep eating your normal diet, as long as you eat healthy. Read raw pregnancy for more information. Yes, you’ll need to avoid drugs and alcohol. Keep in mind that your baby gets small tastes of what you eat, so be cautious about spices.

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