Breastfeeding is renowned for its multitude of advantages for babies, from bolstering their immune systems to reducing the risk of various health issues. However, what often goes under the radar is the treasure trove of benefits it bestows upon mothers. Let’s delve into the lesser-known advantages of breastfeeding for moms.
Guarding Against Diabetes
Recent research from Yale University has added to the growing body of evidence that breastfeeding may act as a protective shield against diabetes in mothers. In an intriguing study involving mice, scientists compared those that nursed their offspring to those that didn’t. The results were enlightening: the non-lactating mice exhibited a decline in insulin-producing cells in their pancreas, a condition linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Reducing the Risk of Cancer and Beyond
Breastfeeding doesn’t just safeguard mothers against diabetes. Numerous studies have unveiled that mothers who breastfeed are less likely to develop a range of health concerns, including:
- Breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Osteoporosis
- High blood pressure
- Arthritis
- Postpartum depression
Jennifer Foster, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), underscores the natural and healthiest choice that breastfeeding represents for both mother and child.
Physical Benefits and Weight Loss
Breastfeeding triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone that helps a woman’s uterus contract, aiding in returning it to its pre-pregnancy size. Additionally, it’s an unexpected calorie-burning powerhouse, torching an estimated 500 to 700 calories daily. For mothers with diabetes, breastfeeding can assist in weight management and maintaining control over the condition.
Karen Elkind-Hirsch, PhD, Director of Scientific Research at Woman’s Hospital-Baton Rouge, highlights the dual benefits of weight loss and diabetes management that breastfeeding provides.
A Cost-Effective Choice for Families and Nations
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for approximately six months, followed by continued breastfeeding as a complement to solid foods until children reach 12 months or older. A study published in the Journal Pediatrics offers an intriguing perspective: if 90 percent of U.S. families adhered to these breastfeeding guidelines for six months, the nation could save a staggering $13 billion annually, owing to reduced medical and associated costs.
In essence, breastfeeding is not only a source of nourishment and comfort for infants but also a robust ally for mothers, offering an array of health benefits. It underscores the ripple effect of individual choices, contributing to improved well-being and financial savings for families and entire nations.
