The Benefits of Breast Feeding

To bottle feed or breast feed is the big question for each pregnant mommy. There are nay sayers out there on both sides of the question. There are those moms who tried to breast feed and failed and so they discourage others from even trying to feed their baby's by breast. There are breast feeding advocates that scorn any mother that doesn't breast feed. The facts are that breast feeding is a choice, it is an option. Breast feeding has many health benefits that make choosing between the bottle and breast a bit easier. I breast feed four babies. I can tell you all the negatives about both. For starters bottles need to be prepared and heated and spit up can be more common. You may have to adjust the formula several times to best suit the baby. A negative for breast feeding is the initial discomfort (engorging and the pinching feeling as your breasts become accustomed to nursing.) These discomforts can be lessened with education on proper nursing techniques and the correct products such as cream that is smeared on the nipple before you even begin to breast feed.

The health benefits of breast feeding:

Bonding between mom and baby is sweet and special as you place the new born baby just out of the womb on your breast.

Before your milk comes in the baby will receive colostrum which is highly beneficial. Here are a few of the benefits of colostrum: It is high in carbs (sugar that the new baby needs), it is high in protein (for the brain and nutrition), it is high in antibodies (immune system strength), it is low in fat (the baby can break it down properly in his/her body), it helps prevent jaundice, and it acts as a laxative that helps the baby produce its first bowel movement.

The mother's womb contracts and returns to its prior shape as she breast feeds. Weight loss is easier for the mommy as extra calories are used for breast milk daily.

Breast feeding is the most complete form of nutrition for baby. It contains the perfect balance of fat, sugar, water and protein.

Breast fed babies score somewhat higher on IQ tests particularly premature babies.

Breast feeding delays the return of ovulation and menstruation cycles in mommy.

Babies who are breastfed develop less allergies than those who are bottle fed.

Babies who are breast fed receive mommy's immunities to diseases and sicknesses which results in a stronger immune system.

These are some of the many health benefits to the mom and baby. I hope that this helps you as you choose the best feeding option for you and your new baby.