Why Breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is a personal choice and may not be the choice of all families. For those who are in the process of deciding whether to breastfeed or not, we are here to support you by providing evidence-based facts on the benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child and help you make the best decision for YOU!

What are the benefits of breastmilk over formula?

• Breastmilk provides the perfect nutrition for infants and changes overtime to specifically meet their current nutritional needs

• Breastmilk provides antibodies built up by the mother and passes that protection on to her breastfed infant, providing added protection against viruses and other common childhood illnesses

• Breastfed babies have less frequent occurrences of ear infections, viruses, diarrhea, and allergies

• The composition of breastmilk is the perfect ratio of protein, fat and calories and is easily digested by infants due to its perfectly sized protein molecule ratio. Studies suggest that the composition in breastmilk prevents the tummy troubles commonly found in formula-fed infants.

• According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, breastfeeding plays a role in reducing the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)

• Lifetime benefits of breastfeeding also include a reduced risk of diabetes, obesity, and certain cancers

Are there benefits of breastfeeding for the mother?

Absolutely!

• While breastfeeding, the hormone oxytocin is released which helps a woman’s uterus shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size and therefore reduces a woman’s risk of excessive bleeding after birth.

• Evidence shows that breastfeeding reduces a woman’s risk of developing female cancers such as breast and ovarian cancers.

• Many mothers feel breastfeeding saves them time and money as they don’t need to sterilize nipples, buy formula, boil water, and wash bottles.