Mother milk is time tested natures gift to newborn that ensures babies health, growth and development and there is no substitute for breast milk. Breastfeeding mothers not only satisfy their babies hunger but also provide a safety net (antibodies in milk) by protecting against deadly infections. It is widely recognized as the optimal feeding method associated with positive health benefits including allergies, ear infections, gastrointestinal disorders and respiratory infections, sudden infant death syndrome. Breastfed babies are less likely to develop diabetes, inflammatory bowel syndrome, the risk of high blood pressure and cholesterol, obesity and overweight, eczema and asthma. Several studies have shown that children who have been breastfed perform better in school and score higher on IQ test, isn't that something amazing!
Every mom knows that breastfeeding means healthier and smarter babies, but does she know breastfeeding has hidden secrets that give equal benefits to the mother as well! Yes! Here are some benefits that are less frequently talked to mothers:
Reduces risk of cancer- Breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer. Low level of estrogen during breastfeeding reduces the risk of ovarian and uterine.
Reduces osteoporosis- Breastfeeding mothers in post-menopausal years less likely to suffer from hip fractures.
Shrinks uterus reduces postpartum bleeding- oxytocin released during lactation shrinks uterus quickly and reduces excessive bleeding.
Delay menstruation- the level of prolactin increases, estrogen and progesterone drops during breastfeeding, further delays ovulation and menstruation.
Natural contraceptive- Exclusive breastfeeding delays ovulation and contributes to optimum child spacing.
Promotes emotional health- Breastfeeding mothers have less postpartum anxiety and depression.
Helps weight loss weight- More calories requirement in lactation reduces fats and mothers return to their pre-pregnant weight.
Decrease insulin requirement- Reduction in dosage is greater in breastfeeding mothers.
Despite these enormous benefits to mothers and infants some mothers do not initiate or continue breastfeeding and it may be due to personal preference, physical or medical problem, work-related issues or due to the social norm for formulae feeding and public attitude causing them to feel embarrassed.
Keeping in view the importance of breastfeeding to mother and babies there is a great need to encourage mothers for breastfeeding their infants at least for two years of age or beyond, and it is possible through the active support of families, clinicians, communities and policy makers and by organizing some events like breastfeeding week. World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) marked as one of the important international events celebrated every year, is observed on August from 1st August to 7th August for the global promotion of the campaign of breastfeeding dedicated to, promote mother and child health.
Breastfeed your child, Mother Nature in return will shower its blessing on you!