The Immune System And Breastfeeding Benefits
We all know the immune system keeps us from getting sick however; it is so much more than that. There are many health benefits to the immune system such as breastfeeding and the positive effect it has on the immune system. Breastfeeding is great for the mother and child’s immune system. There are also many diseases of the immune system which can affect one’s immunity, body and overall health. Many people may not know but there are also ways to strengthen the immune system. Strengthening the immune system can be very beneficial to some people especially those who have an immune disease.
Breastfeeding is beneficial for both the mother and child. Human milk provides virtually all the protein, sugar and fat your baby needs to be healthy. A mother’s milk contains many substances that benefit the baby’s immune system. (American Academy Of Pediatrics, 2015). “These substances protect a baby against many diseases and infections not only while they are breastfed but usually long after. Formula cannot offer this protection.”(American Academy Of Pediatrics, 2015). For example; passive immunity. A mother can pass antibodies to fight infections through the breast milk. Therefore, babies can avoid developing that cold altogether.
Breastfed babies have a significantly less chance of suffering from ear infections, vomiting, diarrhea, pneumonia, urinary tract infections and even certain types of spinal meningitis. (American Academy Of Pediatrics, 2015). “It has been well established that formula-fed infants have much higher rates of diarrheal diseases which may require visits to the doctor or sometimes hospitalization for intravenous fluids.”(American Academy Of Pediatrics, 2015). “The antibodies and other immunologic substances that breastfed babies, for more than 6 months, get are less likely to develop childhood acute leukemia and lymphoma than those who receive formula. They are also likely to develop both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.” (American Academy Of Pediatrics, 2015). Not all of those great health benefits just go to the baby, the breastfeeding mother also gets her share of benefits.
Pregnancy weight is faster and easier to lose with all of the extra calories burned by breastfeeding. Personally, I lost most, if not all, of my pregnancy weight within 2 months of breastfeeding. Breastfeeding also releases the hormone oxytocin which helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and may reduce uterine bleeding after birth. (WebMD, 2005-2016). “Breastfeeding also lowers a woman’s chance of developing breast and ovarian cancer and even osteoporosis.”(WebMD, 2005-2016). Not to mention, the bonding between mother and child and all the money you save from buying formula which can get expensive. It’s a win win situation. Bonding with your baby, saving money and getting some great health benefits as well!
Based on my findings, my research has concluded that breastfeeding has many health benefits on the immune system of the baby and the mother.
written by: Danielle Lisiewski
Works Cited
“Breastfeeding Benefits Your Baby’s Immune System.” Healthychildren.org.American Academy of Pediatrics, 21 November 2015. Web. 1 January 2016.
“Breastfeeding Overview.” Health & Baby.WebMD, 2005-2016. Web. 1 January 2016.
“Disorders of the Immune System.” Health Encyclopedia. University of Rochester Medical Center, 5 January 2016. Web. 1 January 2016.
“How to Boost Your Immune System.” Harvard Health Publications. Harvard University, 2010- 2015. Web. 1 January 2016.