Breast feeding is excellent for both mom and baby, but unfortunately not all women are able to supply breast milk for their newborns. Here are 10 facts on breast feeding, just to give you some general information on just how great it is. Feel free to add your own facts you’ve found out or share your opinion on breast feeding in general.
10. Breast Feeding Doesn’t Get in the Way of Introducing New Foods
Breast milk is complete, but there will eventually be a time when the baby needs to start eating more solid foods. There’s no reason to stop breast feeding during this time. Mom can continue to supply breast milk as well as solids that are appropriate for the age of the child.
9. It Helps Mother and Baby Bond
It isn’t to say that a baby doesn’t bond well with his mother when she uses a bottle instead of breast feeding. This is by no means the case. However, the closeness seems to be much more soothing for both mom and baby, thus creating a relaxing moment to simply enjoy one another’s company.
8. It’s Cheaper than Buying Formula
Breast milk doesn’t have to be purchased, which saves the family of a newborn quite a lot of money. When offered a choice between something free and something that isn’t, wouldn’t you be more inclined to take the free item if you were able to? I know I would!
7. Breast Feeding Helps Moms Lose Weight Quicker
Moms who breast feed burn up to 600 more calories a day than moms who don’t, which is a lot of calories. It takes nearly 2 hours of rigorous exercise to use up 600 calories for most people. Imagine being able to burn the same amount of calories by enjoying a leisurely time with baby instead?
6. Moms Who Breast Feed Lower Their Risk of Breast Cancer
Study after study has been conducted about the correlation between breast feeding and a reduced rate of breast cancer among women. Even though breast feeding only lowers a woman’s chance of getting breast cancer by 4 percent, this small percentage is better than nothing.
5. Allergies Aren’t as Common in Breast Fed Babies
Babies receive not only the tools to fight off contagious infections, but also the ability to build up immunity to certain allergies.
4. Breast Milk Doesn’t Have to Be Prepared
Breastfeeding enables mothers to feed their infant anywhere and at any time. She doesn’t have to try to hold a fussy baby and mix a bottle of formula at the same time. This makes feeding time a lot less stressful on both mother and baby.
3. There’s Less Chance a Breast Fed Baby Will Grow up to Spend a Lot of Time in an Orthodontist’s Chair
Not only does breast milk contain necessary nutrients for making healthy teeth, but the physical act of nursing helps to align the babies jawbones and make them stronger.
2. It Provides Babies with All the Nutrients Needed
There’s no need to worry about a breast fed baby lacking any vitamins or minerals. Breast milk is complete all on its own. Mother’s also know exactly where their baby’s food came from, so she doesn’t have to worry about her child receiving any tainted formula. Whatever the mother eats, the baby will consume as well.
1. Breast Fed Babies Are Healthier from the Start
They have fewer health problems than babies who start off on formula. There are less cases of respiratory illness, ear infections, and other contagious diseases among babies who are breast fed.
If you’ve recently had a baby or expecting soon, I hope you are able to breast feed your baby for even a few months. As long as your baby can receive even some of the excellent antibodies provided in breast milk, he will be so much healthier than if he didn’t get them. Had you already heard of all the 10 facts on breast feeding that are listed above?
Top Photo Credit: Boered
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is breastfeeding beneficial for my baby?
- Yes, breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies that help protect your baby from infections.
- How often should I breastfeed my newborn?
- Newborns typically need to feed 8–12 times in 24 hours, usually every 2–3 hours.
- Can breastfeeding help me lose pregnancy weight?
- Breastfeeding can help burn extra calories and may assist in gradual postpartum weight loss.
- What should I do if breastfeeding is painful?
- Try adjusting your baby's latch or consult a lactation expert to ensure a comfortable feeding experience.
- Is it normal for breastfeeding to be uncomfortable at first?
- Mild discomfort is common initially, but prolonged pain should be addressed with professional help.
- How long should I breastfeed exclusively?
- Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months before introducing solid foods.
- Can I breastfeed if I’m sick?
- Most common illnesses won’t require you to stop breastfeeding, as antibodies can protect your baby.
- What foods should I eat while breastfeeding?
- A balanced diet with plenty of fluids, fruits, vegetables, and protein supports both you and your baby.
- How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
- Signs include steady weight gain, regular wet diapers, and satisfied behavior after feeding.
- Can dads bond with the baby during breastfeeding?
- Absolutely! Dads can bond through skin-to-skin contact, bottle feeding expressed milk, and soothing routines.