Around the world, not more than 40 percent of babies under six months of age are breastfed. More than a million deaths could have been avoided had more mothers breastfed their babies. Nowadays, most infants are being bottle fed, mainly because their mothers have to earn a living and do not have enough time for breastfeeding. Bottle feeding may provide convenience since any member of the household can do it even at the absence of the mother. Still, nothing beats the health benefits that breast milk feeding provides to both an infant and his/her mother. Its importance cannot be stressed enough, especially during the first six months of a child's life. If you have just given birth, one of the biggest decisions you have to make is whether to breastfeed or bottle feed your baby. Feeding your baby with breast milk ensures good health and survival as well as protects him or her from life-threatening diseases. The following are the major advantages you and your baby will get from breastfeeding. Advantages for the Infant Protection against diseases. Studies show that breast milk is effective in protecting babies against infection that causes a variety of illnesses and boosting their immune defenses. Breast milk contains antibodies that prevent the risk of respiratory diseases, stomach problems, respiratory problems, ear infections, and urinary infections. It also reduces the risk of more serious conditions such as asthma, anemia, leukemia, and diabetes. Lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Statistics show that for every 87 deaths due to SIDS, only three are breastfed. More efficient mental development. According to research, breastfed infants have a higher IQ than those who are bottle fed. So if you breastfeed your baby, he or she will become a smart kid years later. Better dental health. Breastfed babies have lower risk of developing tooth decay and better chances of having straighter teeth when they grow up. Reduced risk of childhood obesity Enhanced bone density and well-developed facial structure Advantages for the Mother Reduced risk of certain diseases. Mothers who breastfeed their babies are less likely to develop ovarian cancer, breast cancer, diabetes, and osteoporosis than those who feed their children with milk formulas. Faster weight loss. This advantage has a great appeal on many nursing moms. Savings. Breastfeeding won't cost you a single penny, while bottle feeding requires that you spend regularly for milk products, milk bottles, and other bottle feeding supplies. If you breastfeed your child, you will save as much as $1,200 a year. Convenience. When you breastfeed, you have nothing to prepare, wash, and sterilize. Advantages for both Infant and Mother After breastfeeding, your baby will feel secure and you will feel utmost pleasure for feeding your little one. A strong emotional bond will be created between you and your baby. With the many advantages that breastfeeding offers to both mothers and their newborns, it is no doubt the safest and most effective way to ensure the good overall health of your baby.
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