To breastfeed or not is a personal choice.However, medical experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months. After 6 months,the Baby can be introduced to other food along with Breast Milk. This could be small portions of grains, fruits, protein, etc.

Here are a few things that can help you to decide and understand the value of breastfeeding.

Why should you breastfeed your baby

Breast milk helps to keep the baby healthy. It offers all the essential nutrients to the baby in the right proportion. It protects the baby from sickness and allergies and prevents obesity. Breast milk helps to protect the baby from diseases like cancer and diabetes. Breastfed babies complain less of ear infections. Breast milk is digested easily and this does not lead to an upset stomach, constipation or diarrhea. Breastfed babiest end to maintain a healthy weight when they grow up. Breastfed babies also have better IQ levels.

Breast milk changes as per the needs of the baby. The composition and the volume of your breast milk will change according to the demands of the baby. The frequency of nursing and the age of the baby will lead to changes in breast milk, which promotes his healthy growth. This makes breast milk a perfect food for your baby.

You always have breast milk ready. It is also good for the environment. You have breast milk when and where your baby needs it. It is clean and always at the perfect temperature. You are also saved from the hassle of cleaning and sanitizing the bottles. Breast milk has no wastage and this makes it safe for the environment.

Breastfeeding is important for the mothers too

Mothers who breastfeed their babies have a lesser chance of developing type 2 diabetes and she is less prone to some cancers like breast cancer. It may also help some mothers to return to their Pre-pregnancy weight easily. Breastfeeding helps to strengthen the bond between the mother and the new born baby.

To make breastfeeding work for you,breastfeed your baby soon after birth. You should also breastfeed your baby frequently at least eight to twelve times in the day. Hold your baby and have skin contact with your baby. Keep your baby with you when in the hospital. Do not offer a pacifier to the baby until you are able to breastfeed your baby Make it is a point to give your baby only breast milk which will also help your supply to meet the demands of your baby.

Conclusion

Breast milk offers optimal nutrients to the newborn baby. It has the correct amount of nutrients that the baby needs. It is also easy to digest breast milk and is available readily. However,the number of women who breastfeed their babies is low. This could be because of health issues that prevent them from breastfeeding. Some mothers willingly choose not to breastfeed their babies. Studies show that there are many benefits of breastfeeding, both for the mother and the child.