Breastfeeding Your Infant

Should you breastfeed or not? In today's society it is hard to say a lot of moms work so they cant. The fact is, it is better for your baby's immune system. It has been proven that a baby that has been breast fed has less ear aches, less runny noises and less sickness. Here are some facts about breastfeeding.

• Breastfeeding provides all a baby needs to develop and thrive for the first six months of life. By around six months, a baby can have other foods and drinks as well as breastmilk.
• Breastmilk is always available fresh, in the right amounts and at the right temperature.
• Breastmilk is a living fluid containing active cells that mop up bacteria and viruses as well as antibodies tailored to fight the infections the baby comes into contact with. These factors are entirely missing from artificial substitutes.
• Breastfeeding provides a baby with a boost to their immune system just when they need it as their own is still developing.
• Breastfeeding is much cheaper than bottle feeding for families.
• Breastfeeding is good for the environment, it does not need processing

I personally have breastfed all four of my kids and all of them stay pretty healthy. God made us to feed our babies and I believe as a mother you should breastfeed. I know not all mothers have that option and that really is tuff, but if you can you should. Here is a good link for facts about breastfeeding. http://www.asha.org/about/publications/leader-online/archives/2005/050208/f050208b1.htm There are many other reasons for breastfeeding. It is a much needed bonding time for a baby. Think that baby has been inside you for 9 months, so the baby needs to feel the closeness of you. I had to stop breastfeeding my son after two months because I went back to work and I really wish I had more time. I feel a bond with all my kids that I don't think you can get any other way. Some people feel it is gross but I guess it is a matter of opinion. It is what nature attended. I encourage all new mothers to really consider breastfeeding.

Here is another link that brings up a good fact that breastfeeding helps a baby not to die from sids. http://www.asha.org/about/publications/leader- online/archives/2005/050208/f050208b1.htm I believe this is because of the secure feeling the baby has while in your arms. There only a baby once so bond while you can before you know it they won't want anything to do with you.