Breastfeeding

According to studies conducted, breastfeeding is very important for the baby, mother, and the society. How is breastfeeding important for the health of the baby? Well, breastfeeding protects the baby immune system as its body is growing. This milk is very rich in nutrients and antibodies to protect your baby. Plus, breast milk is easier for the baby to digest which helps protects the baby from any diseases or illnesses. The benefits for the mother is that it is cost savvy, it helps the mother bond to her baby, and it is also great for the mother's health as well. The nation benefits overall when mothers breastfeed. Recent research shows that if 90 percent of families breastfed exclusively for 6 months, nearly 1,000 deaths among infants could be prevented. The United States would also save $13 billion per year — medical care costs are lower for fully breastfed infants than never-breastfed infants. Breastfed infants typically need fewer sick care visits, prescriptions, and hospitalizations.

Breastfeeding also contributes to a more productive workforce since mothers miss less work to care for sick infants. Employer medical costs are also lower.

Breastfeeding is also better for the environment. There is less trash and plastic waste compared to that produced by formula cans and bottle supplies (womenshealth.gov).  Also it is very common for women in third world countries to breastfeed due to the costs and also for the benefits for the baby. It just makes sense if a woman does not have the monies to buy the formula to breastfeed.

This topic is dear to me because I breast fed my 3 year old for the first couple months. I recovered well from the hospital. Also, my son has not had to go to the emergency room for any illness. Every once in a while he may get the sniffles but he has not had a severe cold, earache, or any illness. I have been very blessed to not have to go through the doctor visits and emergency visits. My 3 year old could not be any more healthier than a big child or an adult. 

For additional information on breastfeeding, visit www.womenhealth.gov.