Benefits Of Breast Feeding

Though the advantages and benefits are too many to be written down, the most important and basic ones are enlisted.

Helps in Increasing Immunity
Mother’s milk is the best possible nutrition that can be given to an infant as a meal. No other potion can come even close to this rich in antibodies and high in nutrition milk.

The milk expressed just after the birth of the baby is very thick and yellowish in color. It is known as colostrum. This is considered “liquid gold” for infants as it is low in fat, high in proteins, carbohydrates, and antibodies to help keep the baby healthy during the first few days after the birth.

After couple of days the milk becomes normal i.e white in color and much thinner in consistency but still retains its valuable composition.

The most important and significant difference between the breast milk and even the best of formula supplements is that breast milk is loaded with disease fighting cells (antibodies) that help protect infants from germs and diseases.

Lowers Risk of Infections and Diseases
It is scientifically proven that breast fed babies are less prone to various diseases and suffer from fewer infections.

Breastfeeding is linked to lowering the incidence of conditions like ear infections, stomach viruses, diarrhea, atopic dermatitis, obesity, respiratory infections, asthma, type I and type II diabetes, childhood leukemia, and even SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

There is good news for the nursing mothers as well. Apart from the immense contentment that it provides, breastfeeding also saves them from some major life threatening diseases such as breast, uterine, and ovarian cancers. It can also diminish the probability of developing type II diabetes and post partum depression.

High on Nutritional Value
The nutritional value of breast milk is way ahead of any manufactured fortified formula.

It has the most appropriate combination of proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and sugar needed for the proper mental and physical development and growth of an infant.

Easily Digestible
Breast milk is easily digested by baby’s stomach as it contains digestive enzymes lipase and lactase. This results in lesser gastrointestinal problems like colic, flatulence, constipation, or diarrhea.

Since the formula milk is based on cow’s milk, it takes time for their tiny stomachs to get adjusted with the protein in it.

Strengthens Mother-Baby Bond
Apart from the medical benefits it has emotional advantages also. Breast fed infants are closer to their mothers and feel secure with them rather than others.

There is a special bond that develops during the process of feeding between the child and the mother which continues throughout the life.

Makes Life Easier
Breast feeding has several day to day functional advantages also. To begin with, breast milk is always ready to be used, at the right temperature and desired quantity to be consumed.

Except for maintaining a good personal hygiene, no other cleaning or sterilizing is required, as in the case of bottle feeding.

No botheration of carrying the whole baggage filled with bottles, water, and formula while going out.

Saves a lot of money by not including the branded formula in your regular grocery list.

Instant and can be used right away. This benefit is most appreciated during the night feed.

Great excuse to sit down and relax.

No expiry date!

After all being said and done, if you are an expecting mom or have just delivered a child, go ahead and give your baby a healthy start in life.