You may have been told by a friend or medical professional that breastfeeding is better than bottle feeding, and have only taken the surface claims. You should understand how good this is for you and your baby, as initial breastfeeding is hard work and can be very tiring. Without a proper understanding of the real benefits, you may quickly give up nursing your baby when your baby can continue to provide real help through you.
Studies have shown that babies fed HMR (breast-milk replacement) formulas are generally more likely to get sick and more seriously ill than babies who are breastfed. They were also found to have more ear and respiratory infections. This is especially true if your family has a history of allergies, because when you breastfeed your baby, antibodies are passed through your breast milk, which helps prevent disease and allergies. Initially, your newborn cannot produce its own antibodies, which is one of the reasons why early breastfeeding is absolutely important.
Another benefit of breastfeeding is that it will help lower your bills. First, you don’t need to buy formula, and thanks to your child’s improved health, you should be able to avoid expensive medical bills.
When your baby sucks on your breast, this helps their jaw line up and cheekbones develop. Obviously, this means your child may need orthodontic work when they grow up.
Breast milk is an amazing substance. It contains the right amount of vitamins and minerals your growing baby needs, and unlike formula, breast milk is always ready, readily available, convenient and always at the right feeding temperature.
You’ll be happy to know that choosing to breastfeed your baby will also have many benefits for you. Your baby sucking on your breast will cause contractions right after birth, which means you will bleed less, which will also help your uterus regain its shape more quickly.
Most moms are eager to lose the extra pounds they gain during pregnancy as quickly as possible. Breastfeeding actually burns calories, so you’ll be happy to hear that you should lose weight faster than formula feeding your baby.
Breastfeeding will also create a special bond between you and your baby – something that formula simply cannot.