Breastfeeding is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways a mother can give her baby a healthy start in life. It’s not just about food; it’s protection, bonding, and comfort all wrapped in one.
In a country like ours, where many families face rising costs of baby formula and frequent cases of childhood illnesses, breastfeeding provides a natural, affordable, and reliable solution that benefits both mother and child.
But how exactly does breastfeeding make such a difference? Let’s look at the key benefits for both baby and mom.
Benefits of Breastfeeding for the Baby
Babies gain a lot from breastfeeding, and the benefits go beyond just feeding. Such other benefits include:
1. Complete nutrition
2. Strong immunity & fewer infections
3. Better brain development & cognitive gains
4. Lower risk of chronic diseases later in life
Babies who are breastfed have a reduced likelihood of obesity, type 2 diabetes, asthma, and allergies in later years.
Benefits of Breastfeeding for the Mother
As the baby grows stronger, the mother also benefits greatly from breastfeeding.
1. Helps the Body Heal After Childbirth
Breastfeeding triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone that helps the uterus return to its normal size more quickly and reduces heavy bleeding.
2. Supports weight loss naturally
Nursing a baby burns extra calories each day, which can help some mothers return to their pre-pregnancy weight more easily.
3. Acts as Natural Family Planning
Exclusive breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation, helping mothers naturally space pregnancies in the first six months (though not 100% reliable).
4. Lowers Risk of Serious Diseases
5. Boosts Emotional Well-being
Breastfeeding promotes bonding with the baby and lowers the risk of postpartum depression, which some mothers quietly struggle with.
Common Myths About Breastfeeding
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“My milk is not enough.”
Most mothers produce enough milk if they breastfeed often and on demand. Low supply is usually linked to stress or infrequent feeding, not the mother’s body.
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“Breastfeeding makes a woman weak.”
In reality, breastfeeding helps mothers recover more quickly, and eating a balanced diet supports milk production without draining the mother's energy.
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“Formula is just as good as breast milk.”
While formulas can be useful in some cases, they do not provide the antibodies and immune protection that breast milk naturally offers.
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“You should give water to newborns in hot weather.”
For the first 6 months, breast milk alone is enough even in Nigeria’s hot weather. It contains all the water a baby needs.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding is a journey, and no two mothers experience it the same way. What matters most is finding what works for you and your baby, while getting the right support along the way.
Over to you now, what are your thoughts on breastfeeding? Have you seen its impact on a baby or a mother you know?
Please share below.
Researched by Victoria Odueso
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