Breastfeeding

Firstly, we at Uplifted want to acknowledge…

That not everyone chooses to breastfeed their babies and not every woman is able to breastfeed. We make NO disparagement of a woman’s choice, or her ability to breastfeed. Our article is simply to inform you of why breastfeeding is highly recommended – for both baby and mother.

Some facts to consider before you wonder if your body is producing enough for baby! It takes about 4-6 weeks before your body is at full milk production! We do recommend on demand feeding as this helps establish good milk production and baby is fed when their body tells them they need it.

If you have an oversupply of milk, check out our article on breast milk storage.

THE HEALTH BENEFITS

For Baby

Breast milk is nature’s way of ensuring your baby receives the very best start in life. Breast milk contains a perfect mix of nutrients to help your baby thrive. It contains essential vitamins and minerals, carbohydrates, proteins and fats that are necessary for growth and development. Breast milk also contains cells, hormones and antibodies that can help protect baby against illness and disease.

During both pregnancy and the early days of breastfeeding, the breast produces Colostrum – essentially baby’s first immunisation against germs and diseases. Colostrum is packed with a concentrated mix of nutrient rich antibodies. Breast milk is also very easy for baby to digest, introducing good gut biome which we know is needed for long term health. Containing a plethora of prebiotics, enzymes and other cells, it helps boost the baby’s immune system, giving them the best start in life. 

Breast milk is also dynamic, naturally changing and matching your baby’s needs over the course of breastfeeding. Breastfed babies have a lower risk of developing health conditions such as ear infections and gastrointestinal issues, asthma, childhood obesity, and diabetes. Breastfeeding also lowers the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Source: https://healthmatters.nyp.org/5-benefits-of-breastfeeding-for-you-and-your-baby/

For Mother

Let’s start with the most obvious benefit for mother and that’s the amazing bond between mother and baby! This bond is very unique, and the skin-to-skin contact experienced during breastfeeding strengthens that bond and provides baby much needed comfort and security. 

Breastfeeding is also beneficial to the mother, in aiding faster recovery from the pregnancy and birth process. During breastfeeding, a mother’s body releases amazing hormones that help the uterus contract and return to normal size and helps reduce post-delivery bleeding. Oxytocin, known as the “love drug” is one such hormone produced during breastfeeding. Oxytocin helps breastmilk flow but it also makes you more relaxed and helps lower any stress and anxiety you might be feeling.

Long term health benefits to the mother also includes the reduction of breast and ovarian cancer, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes.