Breastfeeding BenefitsInternational guidelines recommend that for the first six months all infants should be breastfed exclusively.Breastfeeding benefits include the release of important hormones which help to reinforce the natural bonding process between mother and child, also reducing the likelihood of any form of postnatal depression developing.
The ingredients and nutrients in breastmilk come from the mother's food supply and bloodstream at the time of feeding but if these are lacking in any way they can also come from her bodily stores. In fact another of the breastfeeding benefits is that a woman can use 500-600 more calories a day just in milk production and fat accumulated during pregnancy can be used to help the body produce milk which, in turn, can help mothers to shift those extra pounds put on during pregnancy. Because breast milk contains antibodies which protect your baby from infection he will be far less likely to have illnesses or conditions such as:
Another of the great breastfeeding benefits is that the milk is immediately available and always at just the right temperature - an important consideration in the middle of the night!! Also, children who have been breastfed are likely to have better dental health as the suckling action encourages the infant's teeth to develop correctly.
Breast milk is even more important to the health of a sick, small or a pre-term baby. Babies born early are vulnerable to some potentially very serious problems which breast milk helps to protect against. Breast milk also ensures better eyesight and brain development in pre-term babies.
BondingBreastfeeding promotes the release of important hormones which help to reinforce the natural bonding process between mother and child, also reducing the likelihood of any form of postnatal depression developing.New mums need to be aware that breastfeeding is a lengthy but most enjoyable experience however it can be rather exclusive, meaning partners can feel left out. To make it a more inclusive activity, dad could supply you with drinks as you will probably experience a raging thirst almost immediately you start feeding baby and, should baby's feeding time coincide with your mealtime, maybe even rustle up a tasty bite to eat as well, making the whole experience a shared family time.
Another way for other family members to bond with the new arrival would be for mum to express milk, discussed in detail later on.
To return to breastfeeding your baby click breastfeeding benefits
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