So we've all heard that breastfeeding is best. But why is it so? There's more to it than just the high IQ we hear about or the supposed bonding a mother can have with her child. With the numerous advantages of breastfeeding, we've chosen a number of them for moms to learn more about. As always, don't be hesitant to consult your OB-gynecologist or pediatrician for more information. If you really want to breastfeed your baby and you reach a hurdle with your physician, it never hurts to get another opinion.
1. Breast milk is sterile and contains perfectly balanced nutrients. Within a few days after your birth, a bluish and watery fluid is secreted from your breasts. This is called colostrum and is high on protein, vitamins, and minerals. For some mothers, the onset of colostrum varies - others have it before they even give birth and some take a few more days. Colostrum is the "human vaccine" against illnesses and can only be found in breast milk.
2. The bonding that comes from breastfeeding is unsurpassed. Breastfeeding lets the mother and baby interact more fully than bottle-feeding. You can snuggle up close to your baby and encourage eye contact. The skin-to-skin contact from breastfeeding benefits the baby immensely by making him feel safe and secure in mom's arms.
3. Breast milk supplies substances which protect the baby against gastro-intestinal infections, respiratory and viral infections. To a large degree, breast milk also protects babies against allergic disorders especially asthma and eczema.
4. Breast milk is easily digested by babies. Whey, which is the predominant protein found in breast milk is easy to digest unlike casein, the protein in cow's milk.
5. Breastfed babies are less likely to become obese since breast milk is easier to digest. It does not convert in fat more readily as other forms of artificial feeding do.
6. Breastfeeding is more convenient for the mother. Breast milk is readily available anytime, anywhere. It does not require much preparation and much waiting time for the baby.
7. Breastfeeding leads to an alert, attentive and smart child. There have been many studies that share the same beliefs that breast milk benefits the brain development of babies.
8. Best of all, breast milk is free! There is no need for unnecessary gadgets, bottles, sterilizers, etc. In one month alone, a mother can easily spend a fortune in purchases of canned formula.
Gunawan Harinanto is a Happy Dad with one handsome boy, and webmaster of Breastfeeding Baby Tips site. For More Information on Breastfeeding a Baby, and many free parenting and babies Tips, please visit his site at Babyfirstyear.org. You may republish this article on your website or blog by providing credit to the author and providing a live link to babyfirstyear.org Site.
