More reasons to Breastfeed…

As many of you know, I have treasured my experience breast feeding my daughter as much as any experience of my life! I know not everyone has circumstances that make breastfeeding easy to do, or even possible. But for moms who really want to breastfeed, and are struggling with it- a new study just came out that may really give you some encouragement! You can read about the study HERE. The basic conclusion of the study is that… the lives of nearly 900 babies could be saved each year, along with billions of dollars, if 90 percent of U.S. women breast-fed their babies for the first six months of life! The American Academy of Pediatrics has said that “The health care system has got to be made aware that breast-feeding makes a profound difference.” And the study findings suggest that there are hundreds of deaths, and many more costly illnesses each year from health problems that breast-feeding may help prevent. Some of these illnesses include stomach viruses, ear infections, asthma, juvenile diabetes, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and even childhood leukemia! The study also goes on to talk about the billions of dollars that could be saved by breastfeeding becoming even more main stream. So many people think of breastfeeding as a lifestyle choice, or what “hippy” moms do – but in reality it’s a public health issue. Not to mention an OUTSTANDING way to snuggle and bond with your baby during the day:) If you haven’t read the study – I really encourage you to! It’s good stuff!