Although I do not recall whether I was ever breastfed as an infant, my brother tells me that he was but I was not. My brother often toots that he is better looking and smarter than I and he bases all this “scientific” knowledge on his breastfeeding days. In our family circles, there is also a story of a cousin who is also a very talented, handsome film maker. He was breastfeed until he asked his mother one day if she couldn’t chill the milk. Now, I have no concrete evidence that this actually happened but he is smart, handsome and talented.
I find it interesting that there are “milk banks” that distribute breast milk to both infants and adults. I am not advocating that adults should drink breast milk. However, there are some who say that cancer and immune disorders have been helped by consuming breast milk. I would want to see some strong evidence to support the claim that breast milk is beneficial in adults.
There is much research in which few dispute the benefits of breastfeeding babies. It is important to point out that breastfeeding isn’t just beneficial for the baby. Mothers who breastfeed also benefit with reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes, breast and ovarian cancers, postpartum depression and returning to their pre-pregnancy weight. There is also evidence that breastfeeding also releases the hormone oxytocin helping to reduce bleeding after delivery. But that’s not all; breastfeeding mothers reap the benefits of burning calories, cost savings and creating a special bond with their child.
Infants who breastfeed have a reduced risk of ear infections, stomach upset, respiratory infections, skin rashes, childhood asthma, obesity, diabetes (type 1 and type 2), childhood leukemia and sudden infant death syndrome. If these advantages are not enough to stress the benefits of breastfeeding, what about the economic impact of breast milk- it’s free, always available, and at just the right temperature.
Breastfeeding is the most natural and effective way of satisfying the needs of the baby, while offering a superior infant food. It is important that the mother eat a well-balanced diet. The mother will need to consume about 500 extra calories a day than she did prior to pregnancy. Mother’s breastfeeding need about 1,000 mg of calcium and adequate vitamin D throughout breastfeeding. Mothers should talk to their healthcare provider about calcium and vitamin D needs beyond breastfeeding. Make sure to avoid foods that may cause the baby to act fussy or cause a rash, diarrhea, or constipation after nursing, and make sure to notify your pediatrician as these symptoms may signal a food allergy for your baby.
Your baby might not be smarter or better looking from breastfeeding. But, the two of you will enjoy a special gift of love and bonding and a lifetime of better health. Breastfeeding takes practice but once mastered the benefits are lifelong.
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
skip to main |
skip to sidebar
