Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding....ah...where to begin?

Nursing can be a very overwhelming, tiring and time-consuming experience on a new mom.  At the same time, it can be rewarding, as your breastfed baby builds a stronger immune system than a bottle-fed baby.  There is a lot of research out there to prove my theory but let me try to convince you with my experiences. :)

I nursed my first son for a whole year until he weaned off by himself.  I just recently weaned off my second child off breast milk at the age of 18 months.  It was a tough experience as I found that I was very tired all the time.  But it was worth it! Studies show and confirm my theory that breast-fed babies are less likely to have ear infections, fevers, colds/flu, as compared to bottle fed babies. Not to mention, the endless list of health benefits for the mama (i.e. healthy weight loss, prevention of Mastitis, emotional satisfaction as a mom, reduced risk of breast cancer, cost-effective, and much more.) So I'm proud to say that I did what I could to provide the best possible start for my kids.

© Everything Family Guide

Breast milk provides many benefits and nutrients that your baby needs, as his/her immune system continues to develop even after they are born.  Here is what they get from breast milk:

• Protein - to help repair and build body tissues (like muscles and organs) and helps fight antibodies to fight infection
• Vitamin A - healthy skin and membranes, normal bone and tooth development, and aids in the development/maintenance of night vision.
• Vitamin E - protects fats and other cells in the body from damage
• Vitamin C - helps develop and maintain healthy bones, cartilage, teeth and gums
• Zinc- helps build and maintain tissues

Source: Health CAN

The digestive tract (guts) and the immune system work together to develop and maintain a healthy body.

If you plan on returning to work before the first year, then see if you can invest in a good quality breast pump. I personally love Medela as it helped me with overcoming many challenges of breast feeding as a working mom. But it was money well spent! I also took a few prenatal breast feeding classes that taught me all I needed to know about breast feeding; it was offered as a paid course but again it was money well spent! I encourage all new and experienced moms to take prenatal classes, as they are very helpful and help you face all challenges or new experiences with an open mind.

Overall, breast milk is the best gift that you can give your baby.  It has nutrients to help your baby develop and grow, provides protection against allergies or diseases, and best of all its convenient and budget friendly.

© Everything Family Guide

Take care, 

Annie