Benefits Of Breastfeeding For Both Mom & Baby

New moms, congratulations! You're about to embark on one of the most rewarding experiences of your life: breastfeeding. It is more than just feeding your baby. It's a way to bond with your child, boost their immune system, and even help you lose weight. In this article, let’s explore all the benefits of breastfeeding and give you some tips on how to make it a success. 

So whether you're a first-time mom or you're looking to breastfeed again, read on for everything you need to know about this amazing natural gift.

Let's get started!

Why Is Breastfeeding Important?

Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to nourish your baby and bond with them. Breast milk is packed with nutrients that are essential for your baby's growth and development. It also contains antibodies that can help protect your baby from infections. In addition to the physical benefits, breastfeeding can also have some emotional benefits for both you and your baby.

The skin-to-skin contact that happens during breastfeeding can help you feel closer to your baby. It can also help reduce stress and anxiety for both of you. Breastfeeding can also help you feel more confident and empowered as a mother.^{1, 2}

If you are considering breastfeeding, we encourage you to talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant. They can help you get started and answer any questions you have. Breastfeeding can be a challenge at first, but it is worth it for the many benefits it offers.

So, let's dive into some of the amazing benefits of breastfeeding for mamas!

Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mothers

Here are some of the amazing things breastfeeding can do for mamas:

1. Helps In Weight Loss

Breastfeeding does wonders in shedding those post-pregnancy pounds. In addition, as you nurse, your body goes into overdrive, using up calories and tapping into that pregnancy fat to produce breast milk.³ Consequently, you'll be well on your way to reaching your pre-pregnancy weight goal and feeling fabulous. Moreover, you're not just losing weight, you're also giving your baby the best nourishment possible with your breastmilk.⁴

2. Reduces Postpartum Depression For New Mamas

Breastfeeding releases mood-boosting hormones, which can help reduce the risk of postpartum depression (PPD). In fact, PPD is a common but serious condition that can affect women after childbirth. However, reach out for help if you are feeling down. There are many resources available to support you, and you are not alone. There are many resources available to support you, and you are not alone. ^{4, 5, 6}

3. Lowers Blood Sugar Level

Breastfeeding can help you improve your insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Insulin is a hormone that helps your cells take in glucose from the blood. When your insulin sensitivity is improved, your cells are better able to take in glucose, which can help to lower your blood sugar levels.^{7, 8}

4. Strengthens Mother-Baby Bond

Breastfeeding is a way to connect with your baby and provide them with the nutrients they need. It can also help you feel more confident and relaxed, creating a positive bonding environment.^{4, 5}

5. Makes You Worry Less About Running Out Of Formula

Breastfeeding is convenient when travelling because you always have your milk with you. You don't have to worry about finding a clean bottle or formula, and you can feed your baby whenever they need it.^{4, 9}  

6. Financial Benefits

Breastfeeding can help save you money in several ways. You don't need to buy formula, bottles, or other equipment. It is a cost-effective way of nourishing the baby compared to using formula milk, which can be expensive. ⁴ 

Now that we've explored the benefits of breastfeeding for moms, let's take a look at the benefits for babies! Your baby must be waiting for this, come on!

Benefits of Breastfeeding For Your Babies

Breastfeeding is the best thing for babies. Seriously, it's got everything they need to grow and thrive. Here are just a few of the amazing benefits of breastfeeding:

1. Provides Good Nutrition To Your Baby

Breast milk is the perfect food for babies. It's packed with all the nutrients they need to grow and develop, including DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid that is essential for brain development. Moreover, it contains proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.^{10, 11}

2. Helps Your Baby Fight Off Infections

Breast milk contains antibodies that can help protect babies from infections. Studies have shown that breastfeeding may also help babies develop a stronger immune system, which could help them stay healthier overall.^{5, 12}

3. Improves Digestive Health

Breastfeeding is great for a baby's tummy. It's easy to digest and absorb, so breastfed babies are less likely to have tummy problems like constipation, and diarrhea. Breast milk also contains probiotics, which are good bacteria that help keep the gut healthy. ^{13, 14}

Now that you know the benefits, here are some tips to help you get started with breastfeeding.

7 Tips to Help You Rock Breastfeeding

As a new mom, breastfeeding can be a challenging experience, but it's definitely worth it. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Start early - The sooner you start breastfeeding, the easier it will be for you and your baby to get the hang of it. If you can, try to start breastfeeding within the first hour after your baby is born.¹⁵
2. Find a comfortable position - There are lots of positions you can try, so find the one that works for you and your baby. Your lactation consultant can also help you find a comfortable breastfeeding position.¹⁶
3. Be patient - It may take some time for you and your baby to get the hang of breastfeeding. Don't get discouraged if it doesn't happen right away. Just keep practising and you'll eventually get the hang of it.
4. Ask for help - If you're struggling with breastfeeding, don't be afraid to ask for help. There are many resources available to help you, such as lactation consultants, breastfeeding support groups, and online forums.
5. Nurse often - The more you nurse, the more milk you'll produce. So try to nurse your baby as often as they want.¹⁷
6. Eat a healthy diet - Eating a healthy diet will help you produce more milk and give you the energy you need to nurse your baby. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.¹⁸
7. Stay hydrated - It's important to stay hydrated, especially when you're breastfeeding. Drink plenty of water, juice, and other fluids.¹⁸

Conclusion!

Breastfeeding is great for both mom and baby. To make sure your baby gets all the nutrients they need from your milk, it's important to eat a healthy diet and take supplements. This can help maximize the benefits of breastfeeding for both you and the baby.

Note: Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet

So why wait? Take LifeCell's OmegaScore-N test today and give your baby the best start in life.

FAQs

Q1. What Is The Recommended Duration Of Breastfeeding?

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months. After 6 months, introduce solid foods while continuing to breastfeed for at least 2 years or longer.¹⁹

Q2. Is Breastfeeding For 3 Months Good Enough? 

Breastfeeding for 3 months is beneficial. However, it is recommended to continue breastfeeding for at least 6 months or longer for maximum health benefits.²⁰

Q3. What Is The Best Age To Stop Breastfeeding? 

The ideal time to stop breastfeeding varies for each mother and child, but it is generally suggested to breastfeed for at least 6 months to 1 year. After that, you can introduce solid foods while continuing to breastfeed for 2 years or more, as advised by the World Health Organization. ^{19, 21}

Q4. Is Breast Milk Better Than Formula?

Yes. Babies who are breastfed tend to have an easier time digesting compared to those who are formula-fed.²²