The Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a natural and important way for mothers to provide nourishment to their newborn babies. It offers numerous benefits to both the baby and the mother. This blog post explores the benefits of breastfeeding, and why it is a recommended feeding option for newborns.

While breastfeeding may feel relentless at times (and it certainly is like that for me right now – just a few weeks in), it is precious time. Before you know it, you’ll be weaning, puree or baby led, and then be eagerly awaiting first steps, first words and so on. Breastfeeding offers a unique opportunity to bond with your baby – be patient and remember the closeness.

Nutrition

One of the most significant benefits of breastfeeding is that it offers the baby complete nutrition – nothing needs adding to ensure it is perfect for your baby. Breast milk contains all the nutrients, vitamins and minerals that a baby needs in the first few months of life. It offers the perfect balance of milk fat, sugar, water, and protein. Additionally, breast milk contains antibodies and other important compounds, which help to protect the baby from infections, illnesses and allergies.

Breast milk also changes its composition to adapt to the needs of the baby as it grows and develops. In the early days, the colostrum is known as ‘liquid gold’ because of its ability to nourish a baby with such a small amount.

Baby’s Health

Breastfeeding offers long-lasting benefits to the baby’s health. Studies have shown that children who were breastfed are less likely to develop chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes and obesity. Breast milk is also said to have cognitive benefits, as it contains long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids which aid brain development.

Mother’s Health

Breastfeeding also offers benefits to the mother. It helps the uterus to contract and reduce the risk of postpartum haemorrhage. Women who breastfeed are also known to have a reduced risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis. Breastfeeding stimulates the release of the hormone oxytocin, which helps mothers feel relaxed, calmer, and a stronger bond with their newborns.

Convenience

Breastfeeding offers convenient and on-demand feeding options. Mothers do not need to worry about packing bottles or measuring the correct amount of formula when they are going out with their babies. Breast milk is always available whenever the baby needs it, and it comes at the perfect temperature, making it less fussy for the baby.

Environment & Money

Breastfeeding is friendly to the environment, as there are no plastic bottles used, and the production of formula milk and distribution uses a lot of energy. Breastfeeding also helps to save money, as there’s no need to purchase formula milk or any feeding equipment, such as sterilisers (though you may wish to have one for other items, anyway) and bottle brushes.

Bonding

Lastly, breastfeeding is an intimate, rewarding and bonding experience between the mother and baby. Breastfeeding helps women to relax and be in tune with their newborns, as the process releases the hormone oxytocin that helps to create a bond between the mother and baby.

Of course, it is vital to bear in mind that breastfeeding is not always the easiest path for the mother or baby. Postpartum illness, postnatal depression, tongue tie and a variety of other hurdles can make it challenging to persevere with this method of nourishment. However, if you are able to breastfeed your baby, it is certainly something that will provide both of you huge benefits.