If you’re a new or expectant mother, then you probably feel overwhelmed with all the important purchases that you have to make, along with all their available options. Every mother that you encounter feels a sense of duty to fill you in on their experiences with various products. This only leaves you under more pressure, wondering how they can possibly be aware of what’s best for you and your baby.
If you’re reading this article, then you have probably decided to take matters into your own hand to find the most suitable options for you and your baby. Breastfeeding is a very personal decision that no one can make for you. However, to rest assured that you are selecting the right option, it’s only fair that you read up on the benefits of breastfeeding. Here are 4 good reasons why breast milk is the healthiest thing for your baby.
1. Liquid Gold
Did you know that colostrum, the early breast milk that your breasts generate after giving birth, is called “liquid gold”? Besides its yellowish color, it is often referred to by this term because of its high nutritional value. Even though you will produce a very little amount of it at first, there is no need to worry since a newborn’s stomach is just the size of the marble. Colostrum is made up of the same components as breast milk that is produced later on. It just comes in different consistencies; the amounts change naturally to suit your baby’s needs. Colostrum is rich in antibodies which are important to keep your baby protected from diseases and infections. It also seals the baby’s permeable gut lining, protecting their digestive system. Colostrum is in no way replaceable by formula and is rich in vitamins A, E, and K.
2. Boosts Immunity
As mentioned above, colostrum is rich in antibodies that help your baby fight off viruses and bacteria that are especially common in areas where there is more foreign wildlife, like Australia. The professionals behind https://simplymumma.com.au/best-electric-breast-pump-australia-buy-review/ recommend that you use a breast pump to make the process easier and more convenient. Several antibodies, including immunoglobulin A, which builds a protective layer in the baby’s throat, nose, and digestive system, are present in colostrum in high amounts. According to several studies, babies who are not breastfed are more likely to develop issues such as diarrhea, pneumonia, and infections. If you stick to exclusive breastfeeding (feeding your baby only on breastmilk) you can reduce your baby’s chances of developing several diseases. Feeding your baby breastmilk for as long as you can will help protect them from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and colds. It also helps prevent sinus, ear, and throat infections, various respiratory and acute gastrointestinal infections, intestinal tissue damage, and gut infections. Breastfeeding is also linked to lowered risks of leukemia, and reduced risk of diabetes and allergies, including atopic dermatitis, asthma, and eczema.
3. Brain Development
Many studies indicate that there may be a difference between the brain development of children who were breastfed to those who weren’t. Besides the higher nutritional content of breastmilk in comparison to formulas, the difference in brain development may be due to the touch, intimacy, and eye contact that come along with breastfeeding. This may be the reason behind studies that show that breastfed babies tend to score higher intelligence-wise and are less likely to develop learning difficulties and other behavioral problems as they grow up. Research also strongly demonstrates the significant favorable long-term effects that breastfeeding has on brain development.
4. Healthy Weight
Breastfeeding helps keep your child at a healthy weight as it helps prevent obesity while promoting healthy weight gain. A study indicates that at least four months of breastfeeding can reduce the chances of your baby becoming overweight or obese.
This may be linked to the amounts of beneficial gut bacteria; the more amounts of them, the more control over fat storage. Leptin, a key hormone that can be found in breastmilk, is also important to help the baby’s body regulate fat storage and appetite. Breastfed babies are also more likely to develop healthy eating patterns as they only eat until they feel satiated.
Breastfeeding your baby has undeniable health benefits. It can help your baby grow healthy and boost their immune system. However, this decision is up to you to make, but you should bear in mind that breastfeeding is just as beneficial to you as it is for your baby. With that in mind, make sure you weigh your options to reach a decision you’re most comfortable with.