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Breastfeeding: Nothing Compares To It! |
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Written by Peel Public Health Unit
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It's the most natural thing in the world. A mother's breast milk provides her baby with all the nourishment it needs in those critical early months of development. And breastfeeding helps the mother as well — both physically and emotionally. Why it's best for babies: - provides nourishing food that is always fresh and ready
- helps to prevent constipation
- increases protection against illnesses like childhood diabetes
- increases protection against ear, chest and stomach infections
- if there is a family history of allergies, it helps to protect against them
- it may increase protection against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (crib death)
- helps to promote proper jaw and teeth development
- may help to promote better brain development.
Why it's best for mothers: - promotes touching and bonding with the baby
- helps the uterus to return to its normal size after birth
- helps to control bleeding after birth
- helps to protect against breast cancer and ovarian cancer
- helps keep bones strong
- helps use up the extra fat gained during pregnancy
- saves money — formula is expensive
- saves time — there is no need to prepare formula and bottles
- does not produce any garbage — there are no formula and bottle packages to throw out.
Breastfeeding is a skill and may take time to learn. This website offers information to help you and your baby get started. If you have any questions, call your local public health office.
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