The benefits of
breastfeeding is far more reaching beyond baby and mom, it effects
society as a whole.
Benefits
for the Baby
What does this mean? Human milk is designed for the specific
needs of infants. Cow’s milk is made and intended for
cows.
Colostrum is sometimes referred to as “liquid gold”. Due to its
natural laxative effect, it facilitates the passing of the baby’s
first stool (meconium), thus reducing the incidence
of newborn jaundice.
Studies have shown that breast milk’s
unique composition provides the ideal nutrients for human brain growth.
Breastfed infants are sick less compared to non-breast fed
babies. More specifically, breast fed babies have a lower incidence of upper
and lower respiratory tract infections, ear infections, asthma, eczema,
immunological diseases and allergies, be it environmental or food.
Breastfeeding promotes both physiological and emotional
bonding between the baby and mother due to the release of the hormone prolactin.
Benefits
for the Mom
The release of the hormone oxytocin
accelerates the uterus’ return to its
pre-pregnancy size
There is a decrease risk for women who breastfeed in
developing pre-menopausal breast cancer, cervical cancer and osteoporosis
Exclusively breastfeeding can protect the mother from
unplanned pregnancy in the first six months postpartum.
Environmental Benefits
The reduction of costs as a result of choosing to breastfeed
can be visualized not only in household savings but also cost savings in the
health care industry. Far less babies will require intensive and extensive
hospitalization if they are breastfed. Recall what was mentioned earlier,
babies who are breastfed have a lower incidence of developing diseases and
becoming ill.
Unlike formula, breast milk does not require special
packaging. Thus, it does not contribute to pollution of air, water and /or land