10 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT BREASTFEEDING

The benefits of breastfeeding. And yes, it aids weight loss as well!

5th August, 2019

1. Aids weight loss: While breastfeeding, you burn an extra 200-500kcal  per day. While new mums do need to consume extra calories during this phase, with the right diet, proper hydration and sound sleep, they can easily burn those calories during this phase.

2. Builds your baby’s immunity: Breast milk is the only natural and most nutritious food for newborns. Rich in antibodies, it helps prevent ear infections, asthma and allergies, essentially boosting overall immunity.

3. Breast milk has its own magic formula: The quality of milk matures as your baby’s needs change with each passing month. Not only does it change while the baby grows, but also when the baby is not well.

4. Breast-feeding contracts the uterus: When you start breastfeeding, there are certain hormones that are released; Oxytocin is one of the hormones that help the uterus to contract naturally.

5. Reduces depression: Postpartum depression is very common with 1 out of 7 women suffering from it post delivery. As per a study done in England, women who breastfed their babies had 50% less risk of getting depression, compared to those who didn’t.

6. Reduces anxiety: Many studies have shown that cessation of lactation increases anxiety in mothers, especially those who are already suffering from stress and anxiety. Also, breastfeeding mothers have reported that they experience better moods and less anxiety when they exclusively breastfeed their children.

7.Lowers risk of breast cancer: Breastfeeding for more than 6 months gives you additional protection from breast cancer. There are several reasons documented for the same like lower level of estrogen while you breastfeed and good intake of nutritionally rich foods.

8. It has healing powers: Breast milk can heal wounds. Topical application of breast milk can help cure diaper rash, eye infection, ear infection, eczema etc. How cool is that?

9. Children can have higher intelligence score if breastfed: As per Betty Vohr, MD and professor of pediatrics of Neonatal follow up clinic, have done studies that prove babies who are breast-fed develop better IQ score.

10. You bond with your baby: Breastfeeding leads to production of oxytocin hormone, which allows baby and mother to develop a strong bond of trust between each other.