Benefits of Breastfeeding
The number of moms choosing to breastfeed has risen roughly 12% since 2000. About 80% to 85% of babies breastfed for a portion of time, with about 35% breastfed for more than a year. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists both strongly recommend breastfeeding.
Benefits to the baby include infant nutrition, gastrointestinal function, and a better well-being. Additionally, breastfed infants have reduced risk of infectious disease, sudden infant death syndrome, otitis media, and respiratory infections, as compared to formula-fed babies. Breastmilk contains the ideal mix of nutrition for your baby blending nutrients, fat and protein. In addition, a woman’s body will adapt to a growing baby and will adjust the correct proportions of ingredients. Breastfeeding can also reduce the risk of childhood obesity.
While the benefits to the baby are well-known and frequently discussed in society, the benefits to the mothers are usually less widespread. However, breastfeeding can be particularly good for moms as well. Breastfeeding has been linked to lowering a woman’s risk of many diseases, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, myocardial infraction, coronary artery disease, and certain types of cancer.
Women who breastfed for 12 months or more had a 15% decreased risk of type 2 diabetes and 12% reduced risk of hypertension. Myocardial infraction and coronary heart disease risk can be reduced by 23% for women who breastfed for two or more years. Additionally breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers by 20% to 37%. Studies have shown risks of cancer reduced by 10% to 15% for every 12 months of breastfeeding.
In addition to lowering the risk of disease and cancer, breastfeeding can decrease postpartum bleeding and increase the uterine involution. While a healthy diet with plenty of water, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains is recommended, breastfeeding can also help women lose baby weight.
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended during the first six months of life, with the introduction of complementary foods during months six to 12. Keep in mind, birth practices can help promote successful breastfeeding. Experts recommend that skin-to-skin mother and baby contact should be initiated at birth and women should begin breastfeeding within an hour of birth. Newborns should not be given outside food or drink unless medically indicated. Women that breastfeed should be encouraged to avoid using pacifiers or artificial nipples.
Sources:
https://www.mdedge.com/obgyn/article/190488/obstetrics/maternal-health-benefits-breastfeeding/page/0/1?channel=262
https://www.aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/Breastfeeding/Pages/Benefits-of-Breastfeeding.aspx
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