The complete nourishment your new baby needs is all contained in the wonderful milk your body produces, but that’s not the only thing that makes nursing your little one so important. Read on for a more detailed explanation of how breastfeeding benefits both you and your baby physically and emotionally.
How It Helps Your Baby
- It helps the baby feel more secure and loved because babies need touch almost as much as they do physical nourishment.
- It is undoubtedly the best and most complete source of nutrition with carbs, three kinds of protein, fats and plenty of water.
- It also is full of antibodies that equip the little one, especially if they’re prematurely born, to fight infections from bacteria and viruses.
- It strengthens their immune system and helps them respond better to immunization.
- Breast milk boosts brain development.
How It Helps You, The Mother
- It creates and strengthens the bond between the mother and child from the very first feed. The child learns to recognize his or her mother from her smell, touch, and, of course, taste. The entire experience can be very relaxing for mother and child.
- It helps the mother become healthier, recover from childbirth and even avoid certain diseases.
- Nursing is said to help burn calories effortlessly and help new moms get rid of excess baby-weight.
- It releases prolactin and oxytocin, hormones that help the uterus get back into shape.
- Studies show that breastfeeding mothers have a lowered risk of breast or ovarian cancer.
- It delays the return of normal ovulation.
- Breastfeeding moms save lots of money because bottles and formula are expensive. A healthy baby also means fewer expenses on medication and doctors’ visits.
Image Courtesy: Shutterstock
Explore our Wellness section for spa DIY, natural home care and more.
Find out how to improve your Home & Family life.
Read More:
6 Yoga Poses For New Moms
6 Tips For Kate (& Mothers Of Newborns)
