13 Noteworthy Breastfeeding Facts
1. Breastfeeding is the normal way to feed a baby
2. Breastmilk contains all the nutrients a baby’s brain needs to reach its maximum potential because it is designed for human babies
3. When born a baby’s brain is not fully developed. It continues to grow and develop for the next 3 years
4. A study carried out in 1992 on premature babies showed that those babies given their mothers breastmilk as compared to those given breastmilk substitutes, had scored higher on tests of intelligence when they reached school age. The milk itself had made this difference
5. Other research found that the intelligence scores were higher on average for babies who were breastfed longer
6. Because Breastmilk is a living substance (unlike Breastmilk Substitutes i.e. infant formula) it contains antibodies and immune substances capable of reducing the severity if not preventing such diseases as colitis, meningitis, Chrones disease, eczema, otitis media (ear infections) asthma, childhood cancers, and adult onset diabetes and cancers and certain types of heart disease.
7. Women who were fed formula as infants have a 33% increase in breast cancer rates
8. The longer a woman breastfeeds, the lower her risk of developing breast cancer, ovarian cancer and other types of cancers.
9. The comfort of skin to skin , close to the familiar heartbeat and voice of their mother can’t be underestimated, particularly for an infant who is upset for some reason
10. Breastfeeding is good for mothers also, who report that it means they are forced to slow down in their busy day and spend some time with their babies
11. Hormones produced whilst breastfeeding promote feelings of well being to the mother and calm both mother and infant.
12. Breastfeeding is convenient, being readily available and at the right temperature
13. With correct information and adequate support from Lactation consultant or other suitably qualified professional, breastfeeding becomes successful and an enjoyable experience for mothers and their babies.
