Breastfeeding Basics
If you’re breastfeeding, it’s important to know the basics, you’ll want to make the most of bonding with your child while nourishing and contributing to their healthy start.
There are numerous advantages for mom and baby while breastfeeding. The composition of breast milk is very different from that of formula or other types of milk. If mom and baby are able, breast milk is always a good choice.
What makes breastfeeding such a good option
By the third or fourth day after birth, the second stage of breastfeeding occurs. This is when the regular milk comes in. The regular milk will be a much thinner consistency than previously and will have the nutrients your baby needs
The breast milk will continue to provide baby with nutrients and antibodies, protecting the baby’s immune system.
During the early weeks, your body produces colostrum. Colostrum is jam packed with antibodies that help your baby’s gut, like probiotics do for us. The antibodies received during those early weeks go a long way in keeping your baby from being sick while they are too young for vaccines and while their immune system is building. Research shows that breast milk fed babies have lower chances for developing allergies, GI problems, viruses, urinary tract infections, SIDS, diabetes, and some cancers later in life.