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The benefits of breast feedingAs most mothers are well aware, you should probably realize now that breast milk is one of the best things, that you can ever give your child. There have been many studies that have been taken place, to prove that breast feeding your infant has more benefits, that go beyond the basic nutritional needs of your child. In addition to containing all of the vitamins and nutrients that your child needs during the first six months of their life; breast milk is also packed full with disease fighting substances, that will help to protect your infant from illness. This of course is the reason that the American Academy of Pediatrics highly recommends; that you stay exclusive to breast feeding for the first six months of your child’s life. Not only is this beneficial for your child, but has been found to be extremely good for the mother’s health as well. In these next couple of articles we will explore the many benefits that breast feeding has, for both your child and yourself.
It has been proven that breast feeding can help to protect your child, from gastrointestinal and respiratory problems, as well as ear infections. There have been numerous studies that have been placed from around the world, and many have shown that diarrhea, lower respiratory illnesses, as well as ear infections happen less frequently in breast fed infants; and tend to be less severe when they do actually occur. Exclusive breast feeding (Exclusive meaning, that there is no solid food present in the child’s diet) for a minimum of six months, seems to offer the most protection for a child. Many researchers have found that the immune factors; that are present in colostrum (The first milk in which your body will produce) help to guard against invading germs; by forming a protective layer on your child’s mucous membranes in his or her intestines, nose, and throat. It is thought that the most important immune factor that is set to work; is secretory IGA AKA Immunoglobulin A. This factor is present in massive amounts in colostrum, which is why it is exceedingly important to start your nursing directly after your child is born, however is also found in lower amounts in your mature breast milk. It has also been found that breast feeding may also protect your child from developing inflammatory bowel disease later in their life; there have been studies that have documented a link between a lack of breast feeding during infancy, and development of Crohn’s disease as well as ulcerative colitis later on in life. As you can see there are many benefits to breast feeding, the list and studies continue on for miles. In the next segment of this article, we will continue to explore the many benefits of breast feeding. Remember that once you have finished reading these articles, to take a browse around the site; you may be surprised about what you may find, to keep your breast feeding rock star in alternative style. Related information topics:Your growing baby: Taking the next steps |
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