Breastfeeding Benefits

Breastfeeding or not is a personal choice that each mother makes. Sometimes it is a clear and easy decision. Sometimes it is not. Learning what the benefits of breastfeeding are can help in deciding.

For baby:

• Stronger immunities/less illness
• Lower rates of type 2 diabetes or obesity, even in adulthood
• Lots of in-arms/snuggle time with mommy
• Lower SIDS risk
• Milk that is custom made for each baby, the perfect blend of vitamins, proteins and fat
• More easily digested than formula
• Lower risk of developing asthma or allergies
• Linked to higher IQ scores

For mothers:

• Very portable
• Lowers later risk of breast and ovarian cancers
• Burns calories, may help with weight loss
• Assist in bonding
• Helps uterus return to pre-pregnancy size and can lower levels of postpartum bleeding
• Breastfeeding works on supply and demand. so in theory you always have the right amount
• 24 hr a day breastfeeding can hold off your period from returning for quite a while (it is not a reliable form of birth control though)

For dads:

• Breastfeeding is basically free…mom still needs to be fed
• Breast milk poops do not smell nearly as bad