Benefits of Breastfeeding
From WikiEducator
Infant Nutrition
- 1. species specific An ideal balance of nutrients, efficiently absorbed
- 2. Higher levels of fatty acids, lactose, cystine, and cholesterol necessary for brain and nerve growth
- 3. Composition will vary depending on gestational needs
- 4. Long term benefits such as decreased risk for diabetes, cancer, obesity, ashma
- 5. Contains unsaturated fats
- 6. Infant determines volume of milk consumed
Maternal health
- 1. Faster return to pregnancy weight
- 2. Breastfeeding associated with lower risk of breast, ovarian cancer