Bestfeeding
BREASTfeeding is BESTfeeding
Plain and simple...period...no bones about it...breastfeeding is absolutely the best way to feed your baby. While I do believe wholeheartedly that every woman has the right to make the decision on whether or not to breastfeed her children, I believe just as strongly that such a choice is like choosing whether or not to allow your baby to sit happily and play in the middle of a busy street during rush hour. You would never choose to gamble with your precious baby's safety in such a neglectful and dangerous way, but choosing not to breastfeed is just such a gamble.
Mother's milk is all that babies need for the first six months of life. Exclusive breastfeeding for at least six months is more likely to reduce the risk of your baby having or developing severe allergies. Breastfeeding is not only more convenient than bottle feeding, but provides antibodies for your baby that provide protection against illness and infections, including ear infections. Your baby will be producing his or her own antibodies by about six months of age, but he or she will still have an immature immune system until around four or five years of age. Conversely, formula can actually put your baby at a higher risk of eczema, asthma and diabetes.
Mom's benefits of "best"feeding:
- Lower risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer
- Lower risk of ovarian cancer
- Lower risk of developing osteoporosis
- Suppressed ovulation which encourages healthy child spacing
Baby's benefits of "best"feeding:
- Stronger immune system
- Lower risk of childhood obesity
- Superior jaw development
- Improved coordination of mouth and jaw muscles
- Higher IQ - babies breastfed up to six months have been shown to have IQ's on average of 5 points higher than their formula-fed peers
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