Is breast feeding your baby healthy?
Breast feeding your infant is a natural, healthy way to ensure that your baby grows properly and optimally in the first several months of his/her life. There are certain cases when one should not breast feed, e.g. if you are infected with HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis, or are taking certain drugs. Otherwise, breast feeding can accomplish the following benefits for your baby:
- stronger immune system
- reduced likelihood of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
- reduced likelihood of developing diabetes or asthma
- reduced likelihood of being obese as an adult
For you, the mother, the benefits of breast feeding can include:
- greater bonding with your child
- smoother transition from your pregnancy regarding hormonal release that helps with bonding
- losing weight
- reduced likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, breast cancer , and ovarian cancer
- reduced likelihood of developing postpartum depression
But many women face some difficulties with breast feeding, and because of the many benefits, it is important that you are aware of them and how to manage them as well. Common challenges with breast feeding include:
- sore nipples
- low or oversupply of milk
- engorgement
- plugged ducts
- infection
- poor latch
- thrush
Your doctor should be able to provide some forms of support regarding safe creams and other medications. They may even be able to point you to a good source for emotional counseling or educational support. As for natural health, there are many options available to ensure that your time breast feeding is healthy for you and your baby.
How can natural health care help you with breast feeding your baby?
Nutritional counselling (such as adding folic acid as a supplement) can have a tremendous effect on ensuring you and your baby are healthy. Acupuncture and TCM can assist with the potential side effects such as pain, insufficient milk supply, plugged milk ducts, and other concerns that may arise. Massage therapy can help with plugged milk ducts and pain, and yoga can help improve your posture for feeding and decrease stress that might be impeding the otherwise natural flow of milk.
Contact us for a FREE consultation on how natural therapy can help you make breast feeding your baby enjoyable and relaxing.
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