Benefits of breastfeeding for mother and child

Benefits of breastfeeding for mother and child

Benefits of breastfeeding for mother and child

Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to not only provide the baby with important nutrients, but also brings numerous benefits for both mother and child. In this article, we will take a closer look at the various benefits of breastfeeding and why it is so recommended.

Health benefits for the baby

1. Optimal nutrition

Breast milk is unique and is the ideal food for infants. It contains all the necessary nutrients in just the right composition to meet the baby's needs. It provides proteins, fats and carbohydrates as well as vitamins, minerals and antibodies to strengthen the immune system.

2. Better digestion

The natural enzymes in breast milk make it easier for babies to digest compared to bottle milk or other formula. Breast milk also contains probiotic bacterial strains that promote healthy intestinal flora.

3. Protection against infections

Breast milk is rich in antibodies and other defenses against germs and pathogens. This strengthens the baby's immune system and develops better protection against infections such as diarrhea or respiratory infections.

4. Lower risk of allergies

Studies have shown that breastfed babies have a lower risk of developing allergies. Certain proteins in breast milk can help prevent or relieve allergies.

5. Protection against chronic diseases

Breastfeeding can reduce the child's risk of certain chronic diseases later in life. These include, among others, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular diseases.

Health benefits for the mother

1. Faster birth decline

Breastfeeding helps the uterus to shrink more quickly after delivery. The baby's suckling triggers contractions, which stimulate the uterus to return to its normal size more quickly.

2. Reduced risk of bleeding

Breastfeeding mothers have a lower risk of postpartum hemorrhage (rebleeding). The hormone oxytocin is released during breastfeeding and helps the uterus contract, reducing the risk of post-natal bleeding.

3. Reducing the risk of breast cancer

Longer duration of breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer. The mechanism behind this is not yet fully understood, but studies suggest that pregnancy hormones may have a protective effect during breastfeeding.

4. Natural weight loss

Breastfeeding can help reduce the mother's weight after pregnancy. Breastfeeding burns calories and uses the extra fat stores created during pregnancy as a source of energy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What if I can't breastfeed?

Some women may have difficulty breastfeeding for various reasons, such as insufficient milk production or pain during breastfeeding. In such cases, it is important to seek professional support from midwives or lactation consultants. Alternatively, expressed breast milk can be given or suitable infant formula can be used.

How long should I breastfeed my baby?

Breastfeeding is widely recommended and many health benefits appear in the first few months. The World Health Organization (WHO) and national medical organizations state that as a guideline, exclusive breastfeeding should occur for six months and then continue breastfeeding with the introduction of appropriate complementary foods until the age of two years or longer.

Does breastfeeding affect my quality of life?

Although the early stages of motherhood can be challenging and requires the mother to be available to breastfeed or pump the baby more often