20 Benefits of Breastfeeding

Looking for a reason to breastfeed? How about 20? We’ve got you covered!

• It’s eco friendly, no tins of formula to recycle, less washing and less packaging to throw away.
• Night time feeding can be much smoother. Those annoying night time feeds are made a little easier without the need to wake completely up, prepare a bottle and wash it before returning back to bed. All you need to do is roll over and allow baby to latch.
• It’s the best for your baby, breastfeeding is considered the best form of nutrition for your baby, hands down.
• It’s a calorie burner furthermore, it can also help you return to those pre-pregnancy jeans much faster. Breastfeeding burns anywhere from 500 to 1000 calories per day!
• It develops a closeness and the bond between mummy and bubba is beautiful regardless of how you choose to feed but many mothers that breastfed love how they are the only ones able to provide for them
• It is more convenient, no equipment necessary. You’ve got all the equipment right in front of you
• It’s an excuse not to diet! You need to eat more when you breastfeed because you are feeding for two. So take that extra serving of dinner without feeling guilty afterwards!
• It is easy on a baby’s digestive system. Breast milk is packed with all the good stuff that is easy on little tummies
• It helps build up a baby’s immunity prevent infections
• It can be satisfying to be able to provide your baby with all the nutrients she needs and that can leave you feeling proud of your accomplishment
• It is free, you don’t have to spend money on tins of formula, bottles or sterilizing equipment
• Less washing up so you also don’t have to worry about spending hours sterilizing the equipment and washing the bottles every feed
• Easier to pack and go as all you need to leave the house is yourself and your baby.
• It can reduce the risk of certain cancers to you, breastfeeding can help reduce your risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer 
• It can reduce the risk of allergies in your baby down the road
• It can delay menstruation, but this is not always the case
• There is plenty of positive support in the community and through helplines. The Australian Breastfeeding Association provides a 24/7 helpline. Furthermore, there are lactation consultations and midwives that offer free consultations and even home visits to help you and your baby get breastfeeding down pat.
• It can reduce the risk of disease for your baby in the future such as juvenile diabetes, multiple sclerosis, heart disease, and cancer before the age of 15
• It can decrease the risk of SIDS in your infant, studies have suggested.
• It can come with plenty of health benefits for children later in life as well including fewer cavities, a lower chance of being obese and fewer psychological, behavioural and learning problems as they grow older