Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding the baby is one of the most special times in the mother’s life wherein a special bondage develops between the mother and the baby. The breast-milk provides complete nutrition required the baby during its early growth and also helps the baby to develop immunity against various infections.
Other reasons why breastfeeding is good for the baby include:
1. The colostrum (a yellow, watery pre-milk) that is secreted from the breast for the first few days after delivery helps the baby’s digestive system grow and function efficiently.
2. The protein and fat in breast milk are more easily available for the baby’s body.
3. Breastfeeding is good for the mother also! It offers various advantages such as:
- It is always available and at the right temperature and convenient to feed the baby.
- The process results in the release of a hormone known as oxytocin, which helps the uterus to contract and return to its normal size more quickly.
- The risk of osteoporosis and some forms of cancer is low in women who breast feed.
- It may help the mother lose the weight faster, which is gained during pregnancy.1
Also read: Methods of breast feeding
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: April 20, 2012