Important
Benefits of Breastfeeding

Studies for breastfeeding have shown many benefits of breastfeeding. The best first food for babies is breast milk, which contains the right amount of nutrition.



Benefits for the child

The benefits begin from birth and last for many years after breastfeeding stops.
Breastfed children:

• have fewer illnesses because breast milk transfers to the baby the mother's antibodies, which help protect against bacteria and viruses. Breastfed babies are protected from a number of illnesses, including pneumonia, bronchitis and ear infections.
• have better jaw development. It takes more strength to get milk out of a breast than a bottle.
• score higher on IQ tests.
• have fewer cavities and are less likely to require braces.
• bring mother and baby closer together. A nursing mother cuddles her infant closely during feeding. Nursing becomes a source of warmth and comfort for the baby.

Benefits of breastfeeding for the mother

• Breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast cancer.
• It is easier for the mother. Formula does not have to be bought, measured, mixed and bottles filled.
• After pregnancy, it is easier for the mother to lose the pounds put on during pregnancy. Nursing also uses up extra calories.
• The mother gets a chance to relax while nursing. It is easier than bottle feeding, especially at night. The mother does not have to go to the fridge and warm up the bottle.

Other benefits:
1. It is economical. It is estimated that the cost of bottle feeding is 3-4 times higher than breastfeeding. Powdered formula feeding cost is about $1200 a year. Concentrated or ready to feed formula is more expensive than powdered formula.
2. It reduces the cost for health services, because children have fewer illnesses.
3. Working parents have to take fewer sick days to care for their sick children.

If a mother plans to breastfeed, she should learn as much as possible by reading books, attending classes and get information from pediatricians, nurses and mothers, who have nursed babies.

La Leche Leaque, a national organization for nursing mothers, offers information and support.

Home: Baby-Products-Selection-Guide