An Ancient Practice with So Many Benefits

By: Erica Boshnack

Attention mothers to be… since the beginning of time a practice has been going on that has been incredibly beneficial to mother and baby. The benefits of this practice surpass that of any miracle drug, potion, spell, or elixir. It may prevent breast and ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, excessive weight gain, and even enhances self-esteem.

For infants, it protects them from infections, enhances their immunity, decreases their chance of having allergies as well as obesity later in life, it decreases their chance of developing diabetes, asthma, and other diseases later in life, it even makes them smarter! On top of that, it is incredibly economical and it helps to form bonds between a mother and her child that will last a lifetime. What is this practice? I’m sure you are wondering. It is the most natural and oldest practice in the history of man… I am talking about breastfeeding.

Breast-feeding is very simple, but you must make sure to take care of yourself and eat a proper diet to ensure its effectiveness. Begin by eating a variety of foods so that you can get all your nutrients from your diet. In order to get enough calories to nourish your baby and also lose those extra pounds from pregnancy, you should add about 330 calories to your diet for the first six months of breast-feeding, and add 400 extra calories after that. Be sure to stay away from any drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes while you are breast-feeding. Remember that anything that you put into your body will be passed on to your baby.

For more information on proper diet as well as general information on lactation, contact your local WIC center, pediatrician, or registered dietician. Lactation is a wonderful way to nourish your baby, but you have to make sure you go about it in the healthiest way possible. If you eat healthfully and stay away from drugs and alcohol, your baby will thank you for what you are about to do for him or her.

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