The Benefits Of Breastfeeding Your Child

Discover some of the wonderful perks that come with breastfeeding.

Choosing to breastfeed your baby is a personal choice that only you can make. If you want to discuss breastfeeding with our Raleigh, NC, pediatricians, we can answer your questions about what to expect and how to make breastfeeding easier for new moms. If you do choose to breastfeed your baby, here are just some of the awesome benefits:

Breast milk is incredibly nutritious

Breast milk contains all of the nutrients your baby needs, which includes the ideal combination of proteins, fats, and carbs. Breast milk also contains hormones, growth factors, probiotics, and antibodies that support healthy growth and development, and even protect your little one from certain infections. You’ve probably heard the quote “breast is best”. If you want to give your baby all the nutrients they need, but you’re having trouble getting the hang of it, our Raleigh, NC, breastfeeding consultants can help make this process easier for you and your baby.

Supports a healthy digestive development

Breast milk contains colostrum, which is incredibly important for the healthy development of the digestive tract, particularly in newborns. Colostrum is only found in breast milk during the first few days after birth because its sole purpose is to help with your baby’s GI development.

Protects against illnesses

Babies are particularly susceptible to viruses and infections, especially because they don’t have all their inoculations yet. Fortunately, the colostrum that’s found in the very early stages of breastfeeding also contains antibodies that can help protect your baby and boost their immunity. Unfortunately, baby formula doesn’t contain antibodies, so children that are formula feed may be more at risk for developing certain infections or digestive issues. Breast milk may even reduce your baby’s risk for developing the following:

  • Respiratory infections
  • Ear infections
  • Sudden infant death syndrome
  • Allergies
  • Bowel disorders
  • Gut problems
  • Diabetes

Breast milk may prevent obesity

Some more controversial, studies have found that breastfeeding for more than four months did reduce a baby’s risk of becoming overweight or obese. While we don’t fully understand the reasons, it may have something to do with the gut bacteria that develop as a result of breastfeeding.

If you have questions about breastfeeding that you’d like to address with our Raleigh, NC, pediatricians know that we can also provide advice, recommendations, and even breastfeeding consultations. Call White Oak Pediatrics at (919) 787-0266 today to learn more.

White Oak Pediatrics

Address

4414 Lake Boone Trail,
Suite 103,
Raleigh, NC 27607

Monday  

7:30 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday  

7:30 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday  

7:30 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday  

7:30 am - 5:00 pm

Friday  

7:30 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday  

8:30 am - 12:00 pm

Sunday  

Closed

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