Monday, February 8, 2016

Why I Breastfeed



I know the choice to bottle feed or breastfeed to some people is very personal.  In my opinion, the most important thing is that baby is happy and fed, no matter if they are getting breast-milk or formula.  As a new mom, there are many decisions to make and I wanted to share my personal reasons for breastfeeding.  I am going on 9 months of exclusive breastfeeding/pumping (with solids introduced at around 6 months) and although it has had it's highs and lows, here is why I am happy with my choice to breastfeed.
  • Because it feels natural. The second I had Gavin, my body provided food that was made especially for him. It felt natural to embrace my body's way of providing nutrition for my child.
  • Studies show it's proven to be the healthiest and best nutrition for the baby.  Specifically the American Academy of Pediatrics claims that breastfeeding can reduce the risk of infections, asthma, SIDS, and obesity in babies. 
  • I'm lazy. Yup, I like that I do not have to get a bottle ready in the middle of the night, especially since my fridge is downstairs.  I lie Gavin right next to me, half asleep, and he feeds while I am half-snoozing.
  • Selfish, I know, but breastfeeding really has helped me lose postpartum weight. According to Women's Health Magazine, nursing burns 300-500 calories per day.  The science behind it is, that your body is working very hard to produce these nutrients for your baby, and this extra work on your body burns calories while you provide nutrition.  It's definitely a win-win!
  • Saves time and work.  While on maternity leave, it was nice to not have to clean a single bottle.  Now that I am back to work, I realize how much time is taken out of my day prepping, cleaning, and warming bottles daily.  It's nice to run out the door when in a rush without having to prep a bottle or even think of packing one and it's always at the perfect temperature.
  • No periods.  Most women do not have to worry about menstruating during the time they breastfeed.  I am enjoying the hiatus.
  • It's virtually free.  Sure, I invested in a breast-pump (some insurances cover elctric pumps), however comparing to the cost of formula which can be $150-400 per month, I am saving thousands.  I must admit, my grocery bill as gone up as I am ravenous but that's a small price to pay. :)
  • The bonding is incredible.  Since the day Gavin was born and I nursed him, skin to skin, I felt that breastfeeding truly connected us in an incredible way.
I'd like to create an open dialogue about breast-feeding.  I will be sharing more of my experiences on breast-feeding and I'd love to hear yours as well!  I am a huge fan of making breastfeeding a natural topic of discussion to normalize it.  I love that female icons such as Alyssa Milano and Jesse Decker are taking a stand to normalize breastfeeding.  What are your thoughts?


Ever After,
Jamie

7 comments:

  1. I agree with you! Nice post!
    Xoxo,
    Love from www.trangscorner.com {a lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and food blog}

    ReplyDelete
  2. losing weight is always a great factor :p no need to be ashamed of that!
    Pam xo/ Pam Scalfi♥

    ReplyDelete
  3. what a great post to archive for when i have children! thank you so much for sharing!!! xoxo
    http://ohsheslovely.blogspot.com

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Thanks for the love. I read each & every comment.