Breastfeeding - The Benefits

The benefits of breastfeeding babies drastically out numbers formula feeding babies. Many moms often decide to breastfeed after finding out the substantial health benefits. Not only does breastfeeding benefit the health of the baby during infancy, it provides lasting positive effects throughout his/her entire life. Breastfeeding is also an important form of bonding mother and child. Some of the benefits of breastfeeding will be discussed in this article.

The breast milk gives children the very best forms of antibodies and nutrients that they can receive. This is important for aiding the child with the ability to fight off infections and diseases, such as respiratory diseases, pneumonia, and infections of the kidneys. The breastfed baby has increased protection from heart disease, allergies, asthma, ear infections, meningitis, Crohn's disease, and gastroenteritis.

Breastfed babies have a reduced risk of several health related problems. Some of the things that they have less of a risk for developing include childhood diabetes, colic, anemia from iron deficiency, vitamin E deficiency, tooth decay, and childhood obesity. They also have less reports of diarrhea and vomiting.

Breastfeeding babies also helps in the area of development of the infant's physical appearance and mental capabilities. The nursing process helps with the development of the baby's facial structure as well as helping to develop straight teeth. Studies have also shown that breast milk improves the child's IQ by between 10-12 points.

Another important benefit of breastfeeding is the amount of money it saves. The cost of formula and bottles is skyrocketing. Parents can use the extra savings to purchase more things that the baby needs. Not only does breastfeeding save money for the mom and dad, it also saves money for the whole country. The reduced risks for instances of health related problems because of breastfeeding saves money on medicaid and other government funded health programs.

The benefits listed in this article are only a few of the positive ways that breastfeeding is helpful to the development of infants. Many new mothers are deciding to breastfeed their babies because the benefits far outweigh any perceived inconveniences. Breastfeeding gives children nutrients that will help them their entire lives.