Why Extended Breastfeeding is Good

  

Date Posted: 2/27/2018 10:54:14 AM

Posted By: Alambi  Membership Level: Gold  Total Points: 2017

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Why Extended Breastfeeding is Good
A bond is created between a mother and her child during breastfeeding. Many people hold an opinion that a child that is at least one-two years is too old to be breastfed. This opinion may make some mother's who prefer to breastfeed their children for longer periods feel criticized. Honestly, it's wise to avoid people's opinions. If your motherly instincts tell you to breastfeed your child for an extended period of time, why shouldn't you? Breastfeeding is very healthy for both the child and the mother. In this article we take a look at some reasons why extended breastfeeding is good.

Benefits to the baby: There is a lot of proof in loads of medical journals that shows the health benefits of breastfeeding a child. The occurrence of most illnesses, both when young and old, are reduced by breastfeeding, such illnesses include: diabetes and degenerative disorders that affect the main nervous system. The more interesting medical studies say that the more frequently a mother breastfeeds her child for an extended period of time, her offspring is likely to be smarter. The brain experiences growth more in the first 2 years of a person's life than any other time period, almost tripling it's size from birth to the age of 2. It's evident that it's a vital period for brain development, and the IQ(intellectual capacity) benefit breastfed children gain is attributed to 'smart fats'(omega-3 fatty acids) which can only be found in a mother's breast milk. Babies who are breastfed for longer periods of time are healthier in general. Their bodies tend to be leaner with reduced risk of being overweight. In addition to that, they have improved eyesight, because the eye is the same as the brain in terms of nervous tissue. These children have improved hearing

as well because of reduced risk to ear infections. Their dental health is great too due to the natural sucking action which helps growing teeth in an infant to align in the right way. The intestines are also in a better state than for non-breastfed children, since breast milk is easily digestible, lessening spit-up, constipation and reflux. The immune system of a toddler works better as breast milk has an immunoglobulin which covers the intestinal lining; this helps to prevent germs and any other harmful microorganisms from entering. The skin of breastfed babies is also smoother and very supple.

Fun fact: The World Health Organization in its official capacity recommends that mothers should breastfeed until the child is 3 years old. Pediatricians worldwide share the same view as well.

Benefits to the mother: Extended breastfeeding lowers the risk of the mother getting breast, ovarian and uterine cancers. Breastfeeding mothers have a lower chance of acquiring osteoporosis as they age. As a mother, don't make excuses, just breastfeed your child as long as it's possible!

Behavior monitoring: Breastfed toddlers are usually easier to discipline. While breastfeeding, a mother is able to read her child's behavior and correct a disciplinary situation before it's too late. Breastfeeding is also a great calming technique on times when the mother needs to rest and to get rid of an upcoming child tantrum.

Critics of extended breastfeeding can be silenced by the way your child develops well. They can see the advantages of the bond created between you and your child, your development as a mom and the emotional, brain and physical state of your baby, they will be convinced of the benefits of prolonged breastfeeding.

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