As parents, we only want the best for our children. So when it comes down to the decision of breastfeeding or formula feeding, breastfeeding is generally the best choice. It is just too hard to ignore the many benefits of breastfeeding; benefits that give our little miracles the best possible lifestyle.
Protects Against Infections
Your baby has no antibodies to help protect itself from infections when they are born. Through breastfeeding, you give your baby the very best antibodies they can have at a very young age, that of which can not be replicated with baby formula. Breastfeeding provides your child with the antibodies to help prevent diarrhea, Haemophilus Influenza, Necrotizing Enternal Colitis (NEC), Otitis Media, Herpes Simplex, Respiratory Syncytical Virus, and Respiratory Infections. Breastfed babies also have an easier time with their immunizations because of their high antibody levels.
Protects Against Illnesses
As a baby, your newborn has a very small, almost nonexistent immune system. So how do our babies protect themselves? Breastmilk helps build the immune system of newborns; to help protect them against the nasty viruses that are often floating around, especially when people can not keep their hands off of your adorable baby. Breast milk helps protect against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), AIDS, wheezing, Gastroesophageal Reflex, Multiple Sclerosis, Inguinal Hernia, and Cryptorchidism. It is also proven to elongate the life of an infant.
Provides A Healthier Lifestyle
Many studies have proven that infants who are breastfed until at least six months of age, are less likely to become obese, which also reduces the risk of diabetes. Children were least like to develop cancer, Chron’s Disease, Hodgkin’s disease, and Rheumatoid Arthritus. They also have better dental hygiene.
Better Mental and Physical Development
Breastfed babies have a better development than formula fed babies. Children have higher IQ’s and better social skills when breast fed, possibly from the physical bond between mother and child.
There is no doubt that breastfed babies have a healthier, happier lifestyle than formula fed babies. These are just the benefits of breastfeeding that affect children. Many more benefits solely affect the mother, or the mother and father both. For more on breastfeeding benefits for parents, please check back for my next article.
References: http://www.breastfeeding.com/all_about/all_about_more2.html, http://www.motheringfromtheheart.com/Benefits.htm
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