why need to breastfeed?

Nature has its way of dictating what is best for you and your baby. When it comes to providing your baby with the right nutrition, breastfeeding is still best way to go.

With all the milk formulas in the market today, mothers are searching high and low for the one that is perfect for their babies. However, no milk formula could ever come close to giving babies the proper nourishment they need. Milk formulas only come in second to breastfeeding and should not be seen as an alternative to a mother’s milk, but as a supplement only.

The benefits of breastfeeding go beyond than simply filling a baby’s stomach. Aside from its nutritional value, breast milk is known to have its effects on a mother’s and baby’s well being.

For the baby

1. Protects your baby from illnesses and allergies – Hospital confinements, doctor’s fee and immunizations all cost a lot of money. These may all be prevented if your baby has a strong immune system. And where else could he get the immunity other than his mother’s milk?
2. Lowers a baby’s tendency to be obese – Breast milk contains all the necessary components that lessen the chances of becoming obese among breastfed babies. For one, breast milk has less insulin than milk formulas. It also helps in the control of appetite and fat through a hormone called leptin.
3. Boosts child’s intelligence – Fatty acids in breast milk are responsible for baby’s brainpower. Various researches show that babies who are breastfed are more likely to have an increased cognitive development compared to infants who are immediately introduced to milk formulas.

For the mother

1. Lessens the chances of having postpartum depression – Breastfeeding mothers are less likely to experience postpartum depression, according to studies. Breastfeeding releases a hormone called oxytocin, also dubbed the “cuddle chemical”, which makes nursing mothers feel more relaxed and nurturing.
2. Helps mothers regain pre-pregnancy shape – Nursing mothers can burn up to 500 calories a day through breastfeeding. In addition, the uterus contracts faster when a mother breastfeed.
3. Reduces the risk of ovarian and breast cancer – Lactation holds back the production of estrogen. This is linked to the reduction of ovarian cancer among women.

Breastfeeding is a way for mothers to show their nurturing nature. No matter how good milk formula for babies claims to be, there is still no substitute for a mother’s milk. Breastfeeding is, and will always be, good for babies.