Breastfeeding Health Benefits
Breastfeeding Provides the Best Nutrition
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life. After that, they suggest continuing breastfeeding while introducing complementary foods until at least 12 months of age. Breastfeeding during the early months can also positively affect the gut microbiome, making the transition to solid foods smoother.
Breastfeeding Shapes the Immune System
Breastfeeding does more than just ease the transition to solid foods. Recent studies indicate that breastfeeding can influence a baby’s developing immune system by affecting the microbiome. This could potentially reduce the likelihood of your child developing allergies or asthma.
Breastfeeding Promotes Healthy Gut Flora
Preventing allergies and asthma is just the beginning. Research shows that children who are breastfed have a lower incidence of obesity, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease later in life. Since babies are born without gut bacteria, breastfeeding helps them develop a healthy microbiome.
Breastfeeding Makes Kids Smarter and Richer
This might sound like a bold claim, but there’s some truth to it. A study from Brazil found that babies who were breastfed had higher IQs, stayed in school longer, and earned more money as adults. The duration of breastfeeding also plays a crucial role. For instance, infants breastfed for at least a year gained an additional four IQ points, had nearly a year more of schooling, and earned about 112 dollars more per month at age 30 compared to those breastfed for less than a month.
Breastfeeding Makes the Best Economic Sense
Beyond immediate health benefits, breastfeeding can have significant economic advantages. It can save countries millions in future health costs. A UK research team estimated that reducing the incidence of common childhood diseases and lowering the risk of breast cancer in mothers, both linked to higher breastfeeding rates, could save nearly 60 million dollars annually.
One Final Thought
Breastfeeding can be a rewarding experience for both you and your child. Ensure you get enough nutrients during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. In addition to a daily multivitamin, make sure you’re getting enough iodine. Adding 150 mcg of iodine to prenatal vitamins ensures that your baby’s developing brain has sufficient iodine to reach its full potential.
