Benefits of Breastfeeding

Human milk is by far the best food for babies. Not only does it contain the proper nutrients for a thriving infant, it also contains necessary proteins such as lactoferrin, which aids in the absorption of iron. Breast milk can protect the stomach from harmful bacteria, provide lipases which aid the digestion of fats, and introduce growth hormones that aid with the infant’s growth and development.

A baby’s immune system is strengthened by human milk, which contains living immune cells and antibodies that protect the baby from respiratory and intestinal diseases. In fact, protection against developing cancers such as bowel disease and Crohn’s disease are also provided by breast milk.

Those babies who are fed formula milk are at a higher risk or illnesses such as middle ear infections, pneumonia and stomach flue.

And did you know that breastfeeding is also good for mothers? A baby’s suckling causes the release of oxytocin, which causes the uterus to contract, protecting the mother from postpartum hemorrhage. If breastfeeding continues regularly without substitutions, the mother’s menstrual periods are also delayed, sometimes for as long as several months.

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