Why I Breastfeed...from A to Z

NOTE: This post is NOT intended as an attack on anyone who does not breastfeed. Its purpose is to encourage those who do breastfeed already, and encourage expectant mothers to decide to breastfeed.

I am SO grateful that I am able to breastfeed my daughter! It's a special gift that only I can give her, and some days it feels like a super-power.

Well, I'll admit that I'm grateful 95% of the time...sometimes I have *those* days when I need a little reminder of how wonderful it is!

So, I sat down to make a list for that other 5% of the time when I need encouragement. My daughter is now 7 months old and I feel like we are at a "happy" stage of breastfeeding--past the painful struggles to get it right in the beginning. If you are enjoying it less than I, maybe this list will help you! Or, maybe you should make your own list to encourage yourself to keep going (something to do while nursing at 2 am...).

I know I'm not the first person to make an A to Z list of reasons to breastfeed, but this is my own personal list. It was difficult to choose which reasons to use, because there are so many reasons why breastfeeding rocks! There are many more reasons, but here is my list...next to each reason is a link to articles, blogs, documents, etc. that give more information on the topic.

Antibodies "Breastmilk contains lymphocytes and macrophages that produce antibodies and other immune factors."
Brain Development & Bonding Research shows that breastfeeding leads to optimal brain development, which equates to a higher IQ level, especially for infants born prematurely. Breastfeeding also promotes a stronger bond between mother and child helping to develop a higher level of trust.
Cancer, reduced risk (for mom & baby!) Prolonged breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer and this protective effect was supported by a dose-response relationship.
Diabetes, less likely Women who breastfeed even one month reduce their diabetes risk
Ear infections, less likely Your breastfed child will not only have fewer ear infections, but protection against other infections. 
Flavorful "Babies who are breast-fed tend to have a more adventurous palate when they start eating solids" (okay, this one is just kinda anecdotal, but cool!)

GI tract coating colostrum and breast milk coats the gut, passively providing

immunity during the time of reduced neonatal gut immune function

Half the risk of SIDS This study shows that breastfeeding reduced the risk of sudden infant death syndrome by ∼50% at all ages throughout infancy.

Interactive, living fluid Breast milk "constantly" adapts according to the needs of a baby

Just the right balance of nutrients The perfect nutrition only you can provide

Kangaroo Care Breastfeeding facilitates skin-to-skin contact, which has  proven successful in improving survival rates of premature and low birth weight newborns.

Lactational amenorrhea Breastfeeding can delay the return of your period

Moms are happier Breastfeeding also has an important role to play in mothers' postpartum mental health.

No waste  breastmilk is also the most eco-friendly choice for your baby’s world

Oxytocin and other helpful hormones are released Oxytocin triggers nurturing activity, which no doubt plays a huge role in baby's cognitive and emotional development.

Provides lower chance of childhood obesity Our results suggest that breastfeeding is associated with a reduction in childhood obesity risk

Quick- no need to mix, heat, etc...it's ready to go!

Relaxing- research has found that mothers who do not breastfeed are more stressed than those who do. 

Saves Money (for you and the healthcare system!)  One of the easiest ways to save over $1200 during your baby's first year of life is to choose breastfeeding.

Takes practice but it gets easier!  If breastfeeding is new for you, be patient.

Uterus contracts the hormones that help with breastfeeding also make the uterus contract

Vision- breastfed babies have better vision at 4-6 years old than babies who were with formula

Weight loss for mom- Breastfeeding helps by burning about 500 calories a day.

X-factor: It can't be duplicated. Not all the properties of breast milk are understood

You can 'wear' your baby and breastfeed at the same time  Imagine the possibilities!

Zzzzzzz-more sleep! Exclusive breastfeeding leads to more sleep, and it also leads to better sleep 

Remember, if you are having struggles, GET HELP! There are awesome resources out there! (see "Breastfeeding" on my "links" page above. There is even a 24 hour helpline staffed by LaLecheLeague volunteers!)

Is it easy? Not always. Is it worth it? Absolutely.

Share your reasons for breastfeeding! (Comment below)