The lactation period provides important benefits for both the baby’s development and the mother’s recovery. We tell you why breastfeeding is so recommended.
The benefits of breastfeeding for mother and baby are indisputable. Not only does it make it possible to establish a special link between the two, but it is the main way to provide the nutrients and antibodies that are key in the development of the newborn.
Breast milk is a complete food that can cover all the energy and nutritional needs of the child in his first months. In addition, it continues to complement food in the first and second year of life, providing interesting properties.
According to information from the World Health Organization (WHO), breastfeeding reduces the risk of infant mortality and favors the baby’s sensory and cognitive development. So while it takes time and practice, it is irreplaceable and necessary.
Breastfeeding benefits you should know
That breastfeeding is recommended by doctors, pediatricians and nutrition experts is not a coincidence. Although each woman can assume it in different ways, in general, it is a process that affects the health and training of children in multiple ways.
In fact, breastfeeding favors the mother’s recovery after childbirth and, in the long term, would be involved in disease prevention. In turn, it helps create a lifelong mother-child emotional bond. What other benefits does it provide?
1. The baby receives all the necessary nutrients
Although formula milk has improved considerably in recent years, it still does not meet the same nutritional quality as breast milk. Therefore, one of the main benefits of breastfeeding is that babies have a complete and balanced diet.
Breastfeeding provides adequate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. In addition, it provides digestive proteins, vitamins and trace elements that are determining in the baby’s growth and formation process.
2. It favors postpartum recovery
Feeding the baby through breastfeeding helps increase the production of oxytocin, a key hormone for postpartum recovery. This substance helps the uterus to return to its normal size, reducing bleeding in less time.
3. Strengthens baby’s immune system
The nutrients contained in breast milk, in addition to its contribution of immunoglobulins, are decisive in strengthening the baby’s immune system. Because of this, breastfeeding increases the newborn’s defenses and decreases the risk of allergies and infections.
4. Helps you lose weight
One of the objectives after giving birth is to recover the figure. Did you know that one of the benefits of breastfeeding is losing weight? Although it must be complemented with other healthy habits, breastfeeding helps consume between 450 and 500 calories a day.
5. Boosts brain development
Babies who are breastfed for the first six months of life have better brain development. In fact, it is advisable to extend this diet in the first two years for better superior cognitive development (language and motor ability).
6. Reduces the risk of osteoporosis
During the lactation period, a bone remineralization process occurs that reduces the risk of osteoporosis in the mother. Breastfeeding brings back the minerals that were used in the baby’s development during pregnancy.
On the other hand, a mobilization of bone deposits is generated that increases the calcium content in the blood. All this, together, favors the strengthening of the bone pieces and prevents degenerative diseases.
7. Protects baby’s digestive system
The digestive system of newborns is not yet developed. However, the composition of breast milk adapts very well to its capabilities. This food is easily assimilated and prevents problems such as colic, diarrhea or constipation.
8. It is cheaper
Undoubtedly, one of the most notable benefits of breastfeeding is that it is free and much more complete than any supplement. Just enough to stimulate its proper production through healthy habits and good nutrition.
This means that during the first six months of life it is an excellent way to save. Newborn supplements are very expensive and are not always well assimilated. In addition, they involve additional expenses on bottles, sterile water and other accessories.
Do you need more reasons to enjoy breastfeeding with your baby? As you can see, there are many benefits that are worth it. Also, it is a great way to get closer to your child to make her feel safe and loved.