What are the advantages of breastfeeding?

Q. What are the advantages of breastfeeding?

A. ADVANTAGES FOR YOUR BABY

Mother’s milk is the most nutritious food for your baby, enhancing optimum growth and development.
It is easily digested by the immature digestive and excretory systems, causing less colic, diarrhoea and prevents constipation.
It contains antibodies and living cells which provide protection and immunity to many infections, such as viral infections – polio and respiratory tract, ear and intestinal infections.
It contains unique proteins and fats which stimulate brain development.
It lowers risk of allergies, such as eczema and asthma.
Less nappy rash and thrush.
It is constantly available at the right temperature and cannot be contaminated.
Promotes proper jaw and teeth development.
Long-term health benefits – less malnutrition, less obesity and less heart disease in adulthood.
Breastfeeding enhances bonding by the warmth and security of skin to skin contact, eye and voice contact and stimulates the taste and smell senses.

ADVANTAGES FOR YOU, THE MOTHER

Oxytocin is released when you breastfeed, causing the uterus to contract, minimising bleeding and returning the uterus to its pre-pregnant state faster.
A quicker return of pre-pregnant figure as milk production consumes calories – follow a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
Promotes bonding with your baby, emotional satisfaction and a feeling of well-being.
Decreases risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer.
Convenient and readily available, requires less preparation and equipment, and makes socialising and travelling easier.
Economical.