Breastfeeding Imparts Dramatic Health Benefits To Mothers and Babies

During Breastfeeding Awareness Week, Aug. 1-7, the Grundy County Health Department wants mothers to know that breastfeeding offers dramatic health benefits.

For baby:

• The most complete and optimal mix of nutrients and antibodies.
• Milk that keeps pace with the infant's individual growth and changing nutritional needs.
• Fewer incidences of vomiting and diarrhea
• Reduced risk of chronic constipation, colic, and other stomach upsets
• Protection against ear infections, respiratory illnesses, pneumonia, bronchitis, kidney infections, septicemia (blood poisoning)
• Protection against allergies, asthma, eczema and severity of allergic disease
• Reduced risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome)
• Possible higher IQ scores throughout childhood and even into adulthood
• Greater skin contact offers babies a greater sense of security.

For mother:

• Breast milk is free. No bottles, formula, nipples, sterilizers or special temperature-controlled travel bags to buy.
• Breastfeeding releases oxytocin, which helps mom’s uterus to contract and return to pre-pregnancy size.
• Reduced risk of breast, ovarian, cervical and endometrial cancers
• Reduced risk of developing osteoperosis
• Helps the mother's body return to its pre-pregnancy state faster, since half of calories needed to manufacture milk—500 to 1500-- is pulled from fat stores.
• Healthier babies results in reduced healthcare costs.
• Reduced absences from work due to child related illnesses
• Reduced risk of anemia
• Possible delay of fertility
• Promotes bonding with baby.

If you have any questions regarding the services provided by the Grundy County Health Department, please contact us at 815-941-3419.