For Babies:

* Breastfeeding benefits babies by providing them with colostrum immediately after they are born. This colostrum is perfect for babies, as it contains just the right amount of nutrients , including antibodies. Antibodies are what our bodies use to fight infections, and this is helpful for your baby who has an immune system that is not fully functioning yet. The antibodies, though, do help build up your baby’s immune system. The colostrum also helps your baby pass the meconium out of her bowels within the first few days. And do not think that it is only the colostrum that contains antibodies; the mature breastmilk also contains them so the beneficial health benefits continue on throughout the breastfeeding experience.

* Another benefit for your baby, is that studies have shown that babies who are breastfed have a lower incidence of ear infections, diabetes, obesity, and SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).

* Your breastmilk is always there for your baby, whether it is in the middle of the day, when you are away from home, or in the middle of the night. Your baby loves the temperature of your milk, and it adjusts to your baby’s needs as she grows older.

* Breastmilk is digested easier than formula is. This should result in less gas in your baby and consequently, a happier baby.

How breastfeeding benefits moms:

* It is less expensive to breastfeed than it is to buy formula.

* You will save time. Because breastfeeding offers you convenience, you can spend your time doing other things other than cleaning bottles, and making them. Instead, you can spend time doing something that you enjoy such as exercising or even sleeping!

* Studies indicate that there is a decreased chance of developing ovarian or pre-menopausal breast cancer. The longer you breastfeed, the greater are the benefits.

* It is easier to lose weight when you are breastfeeding. This is because your body has become a manufacturer of milk, and will use up extra calories to do this.

* You will not have your period for several to many months. But do not be fooled into thinking that this means that you cannot conceive another baby at this time! You just never know when you might ovulate again!

* Your body returns to its pre-pregnancy form more quickly. Your uterus will more quickly return to its original size, and you may notice this as a cramping sensation as your baby suckles at the breast.

For All of Us:

* If babies have better immune systems, then they are less likely to experience illnesses and diseases that result in healthcare visits. As well, as they grow into adults, they are less likely to be reliant on the system for health problems that could have been decreased by breastfeeding when they were babies.

* Recognizing that breastfeeding is important will result in more acceptance of it by society, so that mothers can feel comfortable with what their bodies are made to do after the birth of their babies.

So, as you can see, breastfeeding has benefits for everyone. Most people know that breastfeeding is best for babies, but they do not necessarily know that there are benefits for others as well. It is our job to spread the word that breastfeeding is best for all of us!