Why is breatfeeding so important?

There is so much information available currently about the benefits of breastfeeding that it can be a little overwhelming trying to figure it all out.  Here are some very important reasons why “Breast is Best” not only when it comes to being the best for our babies but also because there are benefits for our mothers health also.

Breastfed babies are healthier all throughout their childhood.  They will have less otitis media (middle ear infections).  Infants who are fed even a combination of breast milk and formula are twice as likely to suffer from ear infections compared to infants that are exclusively breastfed.

Breastfed babies have greater protection against lower respiratory infections, eczema and gastrointestinal infections.

Breastfed babies are significantly less likely to develop childhood obesity.  As you may have heard the obesity problem in the US is big and getting bigger every day. When a baby is breastfed they stop eating when they are full.  This insures that they are not over eating each time they are fed.

For mothers the benefits are also far reaching.  There is a decreased risk of osteoporosis. Breastfeeding promotes an increase in calcium production which helps to prevent bone loss later in life.

Breastfeeding women also have added protection against ovarian cancer AND breastfeeding women also have a reduced incidence of breast cancer later in life.

So when everywhere you go you hear “BREAST IS BEST” NOW YOU CAN BE CONFIDENT THAT YOU KNOW SOME OF THE REASONS WHY!!!!

To learn more about breastfeeding sign up for a class in your area.  The Lullaby Birthplace does offer classes on breastfeeding at least twice per month.

Are you interested in breastfeeding at Franciscan St. James Health - Chicago Heights?
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