We have all heard the saying “breast is best” but is this true? Absolutely! In fact, it has been proven that both the mother and her child benefit greatly from breastfeeding versus using formula as the primary source of their child’s nutrition. Most pediatricians recommend breastfeeding for at least the first six months after giving birth. Although this may not be realistic to all family situations, it is highly encouraged. “Breast milk is widely acknowledged as the most complete form of nutrition for infants, with a range of benefits for infants ' health, growth, immunity and development.” (Healthy People, 2010) A mother does not immediately begin producing milk right after they give birth. They actually produce what is called colostrum before
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Unfortunately, this number decreases drastically before the child reaches 6 months of age. Breastmilk is often referred to as the “perfect food” for your infant as it is designed to specifically meet the needs of the child. It is much easier for most babies to digest and provide an excellent source of vitamins and minerals for the child compared to formula. It is important that each mother recognizes the benefits of breastmilk before making the choice to formula feed their child. With the amazing benefits that breastmilk provides it should be a mother’s first choice when it comes to feeding her baby. One of the most important benefits is the increased immunity that breastmilk provides for the baby.
Research shows that breast milk may help keep you baby from getting sick. Breastmilk provides antibodies that help your baby’s immune system fight off common childhood illnesses. Breast-fed babies tend to have fewer colds, ear infections and urinary tract infections than babies who are not breast-fed. Breast-fed babies may also have fewer problems with asthma, food allergies, and skin conditions such as eczema. They may be less likely to experience a reduction in the number of red blood cells (anemia). Breast-feeding research suggests, might also help to protect Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), also known …show more content…
For example if a woman has a disease that could be passed over to the child via breastmilk than it would not be an option for the mother to breastfeed. Another common obstacle women are faced with is not producing enough milk for the child. It is common for newborns to lose weight but if the infant loses to much weight it is sign that he is not getting enough nutrition. Some newborns have trouble latching on to the mothers nipples which may lead to pain and frustration to the mother. If the infant fails to latch properly mothers will often turn to bottles as an alternative. In conclusion I would like to say that I do recognize the struggles of breastfeeding and do not neglect the fact that not all women are capable of exclusively breastfeeding. With all the marvelous benefits that comes with nursing a child, I believe that breastfeeding should always be a mother first choice. Therefore I encourage all mother to at least attempt it. Even if it is just for the time in the hospital. If problems arrive there are many support groups and lactation consultants that are willing to offer advice and encourage you not to give
Unfortunately, this number decreases drastically before the child reaches 6 months of age. Breastmilk is often referred to as the “perfect food” for your infant as it is designed to specifically meet the needs of the child. It is much easier for most babies to digest and provide an excellent source of vitamins and minerals for the child compared to formula. It is important that each mother recognizes the benefits of breastmilk before making the choice to formula feed their child. With the amazing benefits that breastmilk provides it should be a mother’s first choice when it comes to feeding her baby. One of the most important benefits is the increased immunity that breastmilk provides for the baby.
Research shows that breast milk may help keep you baby from getting sick. Breastmilk provides antibodies that help your baby’s immune system fight off common childhood illnesses. Breast-fed babies tend to have fewer colds, ear infections and urinary tract infections than babies who are not breast-fed. Breast-fed babies may also have fewer problems with asthma, food allergies, and skin conditions such as eczema. They may be less likely to experience a reduction in the number of red blood cells (anemia). Breast-feeding research suggests, might also help to protect Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), also known …show more content…
For example if a woman has a disease that could be passed over to the child via breastmilk than it would not be an option for the mother to breastfeed. Another common obstacle women are faced with is not producing enough milk for the child. It is common for newborns to lose weight but if the infant loses to much weight it is sign that he is not getting enough nutrition. Some newborns have trouble latching on to the mothers nipples which may lead to pain and frustration to the mother. If the infant fails to latch properly mothers will often turn to bottles as an alternative. In conclusion I would like to say that I do recognize the struggles of breastfeeding and do not neglect the fact that not all women are capable of exclusively breastfeeding. With all the marvelous benefits that comes with nursing a child, I believe that breastfeeding should always be a mother first choice. Therefore I encourage all mother to at least attempt it. Even if it is just for the time in the hospital. If problems arrive there are many support groups and lactation consultants that are willing to offer advice and encourage you not to give