Breast milk is the safest and healthiest food for your baby. Exclusive breastfeeding is generally recommended until babies are around six months of age, with the introduction of appropriate complementary feeding (foods and drinks other than breast milk) at this age, in addition to continued breastfeeding to 12 months and beyond, for as long as mother and child desire. Babies who breastfeed have better mental development and emotional security. They also have better jaw & tooth development and stronger immune systems. Breastfeeding gives babies the best start for a healthy life and has benefits for the health and well being of mothers and babies.
How Breastfeeding benefits the mother:
▪ Heal after baby’s birth and avoid severe post-partum bleeding
▪ Return more quickly to pre-pregnancy weight, burning 500 extra calories per day
▪ Have stronger bones later in life
▪ Build a strong emotional bond with their babies
▪ Relax; every time a baby feeds, the mother gets a surge of the bonding hormone oxytocin, which has a calming and relaxing effect.
▪ Save time and money; formula is expensive and time-consuming to prepare. But breast milk is always ready and always at the right temperature – ideal when you’re tired.
Later in life, women who do not breastfeed are at higher risk for diabetes, osteoporosis, breast, ovarian and endometrial cancers.
How Breastfeeding benefits the child:
Breastfed babies are also less likely to be hospitalized for illnesses and infections.
▪ Gastrointestinal infections (e.g. diarrhea and vomiting)
▪ Atopic disease (including eczema and asthma)
▪ Middle ear infections
▪ Urinary tract infections
▪ Respiratory infections
▪ Obesity in childhood and later life
▪ Type 1 and 2 diabetes in childhood or later life
▪ Some childhood cancers
▪ Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Growth and development: Breast milk contains important components to protect and build the baby’s immature immune system & making it the easy digestible ideal food to promote healthy growth and development.
Psychological benefits: Enhances bonding & emotional attachment between mother & baby.
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