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Breastfeeding
Good for your baby, good for you!
Breastmilk, the ideal nutrition for infants, is the only food infants need for growth and development for the first six months of life. After which, solid food should be introduced gradually, with supplemental breastfeeding continuing for one year.
The decision to breastfeed is a personal choice, but research shows a number of benefits for both the mother and child.
Benefits to Child
- Lower rates of diarrhea
- Decreased risk of developing ear infections and respiratory illnesses
- Protective effects from many digestive problems, allergies, and diabetes
- Potentially clearer vision and better brain function
Benefits to Mother
- Less messy diapers and fewer trips to the doctor as a result of a healthier baby
- Lower costs to breastfeed saving as much as $2,500 per year in formula and $200 less in medical bills
- Decreased risk of developing pre-menopausal breast, ovarian and endometrial cancers
- Increased calorie burn of 300 to 500 a day and may help with post-pregnancy weight loss
