For some women, the decision to breastfeed is an easy one.  For others, the choice is not so clear.  There are many benefits to breastfeeding for both mother and child that should be considered by every pregnant women and new mother.

Breastfeeding is a good way to protect a newborn from infections and common ailments.  Studies have shown numerous immunity properties in breast milk.  In particular, breast milk can protect the baby from diarrhea, ear infections, and respiratory illnesses.  Breastfeeding can even help to prevent problems such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis that may develop later in life. 

Exclusive breastfeeding of your baby can even prevent more serious diseases from developing, including childhood leukemia and type-I diabetes.  In addition, infants who are exclusively breastfed are less likely to grow up to be obese.  There is also some evidence that breastfeeding for at least the first six months can lower the risk of the baby developing allergies, especially to foods.  Some studies have even found a reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) among breastfed babies.

Researchers have also found numerous benefits to breastfeeding for the mother.  These benefits can include reduced stress levels, quicker weight loss after giving birth, lower risk of developing osteoporosis later in life, and even reduced risk of developing certain types of cancers, such as breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

There are so many reasons to breastfeed for your baby and few downsides.  Pregnant women and new mothers should discuss these benefits with their doctors in order to make the right decision.

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About the Author:
Along with writing, Sammi enjoys gardening. Garden Harvest Supply is one of her favorite web sites which offers vegetable plants for sale including many different heirloom tomato plants.
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Filed under: Babies

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