Long Term Benefits Of Breastfeeding

Shaeyla Davis
ENG 1102
Professor Braun
19 November, 2014
Breastfeeding
Many of the long-term benefits attributed to breast-feeding may be an effect not of breast-feeding or breast milk itself but of the general good health and prosperity of women who choose to breast-feed. Faced with societal norms, legal uncertainties, and incorrect information, some women choose the option of not breastfeeding. Many women are not even aware that breastfeeding is a natural, mutually beneficial way to feed an infant. Breast milk is the most complete form of nutrition for infants. A mother’s milk has just the right amount of fat, sugar, water, and protein that is needed for a baby’s growth and usually, breast milk is digested more easily than formula, which means that breastfed babies gain less unnecessary weight. There
Furthermore, breast milk aids in the development of a newborn’s immune system, prevents diarrhea, maximizes a child’s physical and intellectual potential, promotes the recovery of a sick child, and breastfeeding helps to bond mother and baby. Health care costs are typically lower for breastfed children as they are not as sick as often due to their strong immune system. This also results in a more productive workforce because the mothers of these children miss less work. Knowing these benefits, why do some mothers choose not to breastfeed? Some women are uncomfortable with breastfeeding due to societal norms, intimidated, or just simply ignorant to all of the benefits and the beauty that come with breastfeeding. “Biology determines babies’ needs, but cultural expectations and personal situations influence