Recently it was World Breastfeeding Week and seeing that August is Women's month in South Africa I thought I would still continue showing you how incredible women can be. Breastfeeding is the best food that you can exclusively give your child in the first 6 months of life and continue giving your child for about two years or even longer.
So what are the benefits of breastfeeding and why is there a week in August every year dedicated to breastfeeding? Well that's because breastfeeding has so many benefits for the baby, mother, family, community, country and the world.
Breastfeeding has many benefits, but in this blog I will just name a few, otherwise you could be reading my page forever. So here it goes, the benefits of breastfeeding that you have been wanting to know are below.
Breastfeeding is great for bonding between the mother and child
It can reduce the risk of ovarian and breast cancer later on in life
Breastmilk can help to build the baby's immune system to fight off infections
Breastmilk is very easy for the baby to digest when compared to formula
It can decrease the risk of obesity later on in life
Breastfeeding is a lot more cost effective than formula feeding
Breastfeeding can actually reduce the risk of the mother suffering from postnatal depression
A bonus that I'm sure many mother's will like to hear is that breastfeeding can help mom's lose weight a bit quicker so that they reach their pre-pregnancy weight faster
The benefits mentioned above are just a few of them, but I hope it helps you realise the amazing benefits of breastfeeding which helps you to support, educate and encourage mom's and mom's to be to breastfeed for as long as they can.
Breastfeeding can be difficult so if you see a mom that is struggling, advise her to see a dietitian or lactation consultant for more help.
Happy breastfeeding!