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| |    Why Breast Milk Is the Perfect Food by Mary Silva, M.S., R.D. reviewed and revised by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D. By now, most parents know that breastfeeding benefits babies. After all, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that breast milk be the exclusive food source for babies for the first six months of life, and then continued through the next six months along with the introduction of solid foods. Not everyone understands, however, why this is so important. Following are several reasons why every mother should consider breastfeeding: Ideal nutritional proportions Breastfeeding has many advantages for your baby--the principal one being that breast milk is made just for infants. The type and proportions of proteins in breast milk help to promote better digestion and strengthen the immune system. The milk's fat also aids digestion as well as absorption. Meanwhile, its carbohydrates contribute to softer stools, the absorption of minerals, and the presence of more good bacteria in the stomach and intestines (which helps protect babies from disease). Taken in combination, all of these benefits have been shown to decrease the incidence of gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases and ear infections. Tailor-made to fight illness The composition of breast milk changes to suit a baby's needs. It also differs from person to person depending on the mother's diet, the length of breastfeeding, and the length of each individual feeding. The first milk produced after birth (colostrum) contains protein, vitamins, minerals, a little fat, and a good amount of antibodies to help protect against illness. After two weeks or so, mature milk is produced with more fat for energy and less protein. Cost and convenience Without a doubt, breastfeeding is cost effective. The lack of a need for infant formula and bottles saves money, of course, but the family budget also benefits from fewer medical visits. And the little extra food that women require to breastfeed still costs less than formula. In addition, many parents find breastfeeding to be extremely convenient. For one thing, it doesn't require trips to the store to buy formula, nor do you have to boil water and sanitize bottles. Plus you don't have to worry about packing bottles before leaving home. A special time for closeness Since breastfeeding takes a little more work for babies than bottle-feeding, the process seems to strengthen a baby's facial and oral muscles. This may, in turn, aid in the development of other feeding and speech skills. Breastfeeding often strengthens a mother's emotional bond to her baby. The closeness one feels while nursing a baby is quite special, and in addition, many mothers are proud to make such a significant contribution to their baby's health. Finally, nursing promotes weight loss and speeds up the time needed for the uterus to return to its usual size. Get the support you need Although it is widely accepted that the breast is best, the number of parents who decide to breastfeed is not as high as you might expect. This often is the result of a lack of information and support. Your prenatal healthcare provider, your baby's practitioner, or even your local hospital--usually through the post-partum floor--should be able to refer you to trained professionals or community groups that can help you make a comfortable, informed decision.
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