Why Should I Breastfeed?
Really the choice to breastfeed or not is up to you. Some mothers find it impossible to feed their babies and others choose not to and that is fine. It depends on what you feel most comfortable doing.
Mothers who have been sick with HIV, hepatitis and cancer and have compromised immune systems should Not breastfeed. So there are many reasons why not all mothers should breastfeed their babies.
However if you can and want to breastfeed your baby, then there are many many good reasons why it is best for baby.
1: You save money on the cost of formula and health care, which could add up to $1500-$2000 in the first year.
2. About 80% of cells in breast milk kill bacteria, fungi and viruses.
3. Breast milk contains at least 100 ingredients not found in formula.
4. No babies are allergic to their mother’s milk.
5. No bottles to sterilize and no formula to buy measure and mix.
6. When you nurse your uterus contracts and that helps you return to your non-pregnant size sooner.
7.You burn from 200 to 500 calories a day extra.
8. You and your baby create a special bond.
9. Your breast is always available, no matter where you are or what time of day or night it is
10.Breastfed babies have less gas, colic, spitting up and their diapers are less stinky, most of the time.
11. Breastfed babies have a lower risk of SIDS. ( For every 87 formula fed babies who die of SIDS, only 3 breastfed babies die from SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).)
12. Breastfed babies have stronger and straighter teeth on average.
In the end, it is entirely the choice of the mother or parents and you need to do what makes you feel the most relaxed and able to enjoy your baby.