Becoming a mother changes your whole body and perspective towards life. The instincts of a mother are very different from an individual caring for a child. The initial stage of motherhood after giving birth to a baby is breastfeeding. The journey of pregnancy is inspiring but what comes after the birth is more than just an “Awe-Moment”.
There is not only a deep bonding between the mother and baby but there are other advantages of breastfeeding. This is a natural and intimate relationship between the newborn and the mother. In this article, we are going to explore the benefits of breastfeeding.
Benefits Of Breastfeeding
Here are some of the benefits of breastfeeding:
✅ Full Of Nutrition
For centuries, newborns have been fed breast milk from their mothers. Some studies also call it “Liquid Gold” as it contains antibodies and vitamins that the baby needs. Babies need proper nutrients, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in order to grow. The antibodies in the breastmilk help them to fight off infections and stay healthy.
✅ Boosts Immunity
Newborns are very sensitive to the atmosphere as they have been shielded by their mothers’ wombs for 8-9 months. Breastfeeding helps them build immunity and reduces the risk of diseases like SIDS, diarrhea, pneumonia, and other respiratory diseases. The first milk produced by the mother’s body contains immune-boosting cells that help prevent any illness that comes forward.
✅ Cognitive Development
Studies have shown that babies who were breastfed for their first 3 years have better cognitive ability than the babies who did not. The intimate act of feeding creates a positive and safe connection between the baby and the mother which helps in the infant’s cognitive ability. Essential fatty acids or DHA are also found in breast milk that helps in brain growth function.
Postpartum Benefits For Mothers
Breastfeeding is not only good for babies but also beneficial for mothers. Women experience pain during childbirth and their uterus is expanded to accommodate the process. Breastfeeding helps to contract those muscles with the help of a hormone called oxytocin. It also reduces the risk of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and postpartum depression in women.
✅ Emotional Bonding
This is no surprise that giving birth to a child is also reciprocated when a mother is born with the child. The emotional bond strengthens with breastfeeding and creates a safe environment for the baby and mother to rely on each other.
✅ Convenient
Store-bought formulas need to be mixed with the right amount of water and fed at the right temperature. But with breast milk, there is no fuss about mixing and temperature. It is always in the right temperature and consistency to satisfy the newborn’s hunger. Also, when you are traveling or visiting, you don’t need to pack extra food for the baby, you can feed them anytime and anywhere. Provided you have privacy.
✅ Strong Digestion
Feeding formulas may not suit the newborn’s digestion and might make them sick. Breast milk contains carbohydrates and fats that support the healthy balance of bacteria in the stomach. It is not only gentle on the newborn’s stomach but also leaves the baby feeling content with a full stomach. This helps the baby AND parents to sleep without the interruption of feeding in the middle of the night.
✅Cost Effective
Being a mother not only brings emotional responsibility for a child but also adds financial responsibility. Depending on the brands, baby products can vary from moderate price to extremely high-priced. Since baby formulas are expensive, you can opt for breast milk that is easily available.
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Conclusion
Breastfeeding helps you and the baby in the long term. The journey is filled with a lot of ups and downs but the bond only gets stronger with each passing time. Although breastfeeding is a personal choice for women to make, it is recommended to continue breastfeeding for at least a year or six months. With this, your baby has the chance to develop strong immunity and bones that will benefit in the long run.
Women recover quickly after breastfeeding and it also helps with the “pregnant belly”. On the other hand, the risk of childhood cancer, developing asthma, or other respiratory infections is reduced in children who are breastfed. So embrace your motherhood and choose what is best for you and the baby.
