Benefits of Breast Feeding

I thought I would share some of the benefits of breast feeding. I mentioned in a previous blog that breast feeding was beneficial, but I realized many people may not know the benefits. While I was pregnant I researched the benefits of breast feeding. The information I am giving you came from a variety of sources: Internet, news and magazine articles, books, and conversations with experienced moms. The most helpful book I found was: The Breastfeeding Book by Martha and William Sears. They are a husband and wife team: she's a nurse and he's a pediatrician.

Benefits for the baby:
1) Stronger immune system (which means less doctors visits)
2) "Children who were breastfed have higher IQ scores averaging 7 to 10 points higher than children who were formula fed." (The Breastfeeding Book, chapter 1)
3) Better nutrition (breast milk has less fats and better nutrients that formula)
4) Better for digestion and intestines (a baby's intestines are still developing and sometimes formula can be less friendly to a baby's developing intestines)
5) Poo diapers are less stinky
6) Promotes better eyes, hearing, breathing, and hearts (The Breastfeeding Book, chapter 1)
7) Healthier skin

Benefits for the mom:
1) Faster recovery from delivery
2) Faster weight loss
3) Reduced risk of breast, uterine, and ovarian cancers (The Breastfeeding Book, chapter 1)
4) Promotes relaxation
5) Less likely to suffer from osteoporosis
6) Provides a way to closely bond with your baby
7) You are less likely to have a period while breast feeding and breast feeding can also help with natural child spacing; "...most [breastfeeding] mothers do not ovulate and do not have menstrual periods." (The Breastfeeding Book, chapter 3)

***Note: There are variables and every woman is different, so don't solely rely on breast feeding as a preventative measure for pregnancy. I am just sharing information I have found, you still may want do some of your own research.***