8 Benefits Of Breastfeeding For Mother And Baby
The breastfeeding period provides important benefits for both the development of the baby and the recovery of the mother. We tell you why breastfeeding is so recommended.
The benefits of breastfeeding for mother and baby are indisputable. Not only does it allow us to establish a special bond between the two, but it is the main way to provide the nutrients and antibodies that are key in the development of the newborn.
Breast milk is a complete food that can cover all the energy and nutritional needs of the child in its first months. In addition, it continues to complement the diet in the first and second year of life, providing interesting properties.
According to information from the World Health Organization (WHO), breastfeeding reduces the risk of infant mortality and favors the sensory and cognitive development of the baby. So while it takes time and practice, it is irreplaceable and necessary.
Benefits of breastfeeding that you should know
That breastfeeding is recommended by doctors, pediatricians and nutrition experts is not a mere coincidence. Although each woman can assume it in different ways, in general it is a process that affects the health and education of children in multiple ways.
In fact, breastfeeding favors the recovery of the mother after childbirth and, in the long term, would be involved in the prevention of diseases. In turn, it helps create an emotional mother-child bond that lasts for life. What other benefits does it bring?
1. The baby receives all the necessary nutrients
Although formula milk has improved considerably in recent years, it still does not meet the same nutritional quality as human milk. Therefore, one of the main benefits of breastfeeding is that babies have a complete and balanced diet.
Breastfeeding provides the proper amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. In addition, it provides digestive proteins, vitamins and trace elements that are decisive in the growth and formation process of the baby.
2. Promotes postpartum recovery
Feeding your baby through breastfeeding helps increase the production of oxytocin, a key hormone for postpartum recovery. This substance helps the uterus to regain its normal size, reducing bleeding in less time.
3. Strengthens the baby’s immune system
The nutrients contained in breast milk, in addition to its contribution of immunoglobulins, are decisive in strengthening the baby’s immune system. Because of this, breastfeeding increases the newborn’s defenses and decreases the risk of allergies and infections.
4. Helps to lose weight
One of the goals after giving birth is to regain your figure. Did you know that one of the benefits of breastfeeding is losing weight? Although it must be supplemented with other healthy habits, breastfeeding helps you consume between 450 and 500 calories a day.
5. Boost brain development
Babies who are breastfed for the first six months of their life have better brain development. In fact, it is advisable to extend this diet in the first two years for better higher cognitive development (language and motor skills).
6. Reduces the risk of osteoporosis
During the lactation period, a process of bone remineralization occurs that reduces the risk of osteoporosis in the mother. When breastfeeding brings back the minerals that were destined for the development of the baby in pregnancy.
On the other hand, a mobilization of bone deposits is generated that increases the calcium content in the blood. All this, together, favors the strengthening of the bone pieces and prevents degenerative diseases.
7. Protects the baby’s digestive system
The digestive system of newborns is not yet developed. However, the composition of breast milk is very well suited to its capabilities. This food is easily assimilated and prevents problems such as colic, diarrhea or constipation.
8. It is cheaper
Without a doubt, one of the most remarkable benefits of breastfeeding is that it is free and much more complete than any supplement. It is enough to stimulate its adequate production through healthy habits and a good diet.
This means that during the first six months of life it is an excellent way to save. Newborn supplements are very expensive and are not always well assimilated. In addition, they involve additional costs for bottles, sterile water and other accessories.
Do you need more reasons to enjoy breastfeeding with your baby? As you can see, there are many benefits that are worth it. In addition, it is a great way to get closer to your child to make him feel safe and loved.
