The Benefits of Breastfeeding
When you become a Mother you learn firsthand just how amazing and divine your body is. Not only can our bodies carry and grow a baby for 9 months, we birth that baby and then can have the ability to nourish that baby with our breast by producing milk. It truly is a miracle. Throughout this blog we will discuss the benefits of breastfeeding and ways to support yourself so that you maintain your milk supply.
The Benefits:
You develop a special bond with your baby through breastfeeding, this is hard to explain with words its just something magical.
You save money on formula! This can help alleviate the cost of other things that inevitably come up when you have a baby.
Convenience. There is nothing better than being able to feed your baby on demand. No packing formula and bottles. No forgetting said packed up formula and bottles. No washing a a hundred little bottle pieces.
Your breastmilk is specially formulated to fit your babies needs throughout the many different stages of development. When your baby latches onto the breast there are little receptors around the nipple that read the saliva of your baby then, your body will produce milk specific to your babies needs. For example, if your baby happens to come down with a sickness your breastmilk will produce antibodies to support your baby.
Lowers the risk of postpartum depression- this is not talked about enough. Breastfeeding can be challenging. Especially during those first two weeks where you are just trying to figure it all out. Establishing a good breastfeeding rhythm with your baby can indeed help lower the risk of PPD. Being prepared and having the right support will help you achieve this. I know first hand how important this is. When I had my first baby I remember my milk came in three days after birth just like it was supposed to and I was completely unprepared. I never even got my breast pump out of the box and ready. I was sitting on my bed with my baby in tears, frustrated with myself. By this time my breasts were engorged and we were having issues latching. And by the grace of God in walks my sister in law, she had been dropping off food and my husband explained to her what was going on. In that moment she rescued me, I was new to all of this and she played a pivotal role in the success of my breastfeeding journey with my first baby. Once you get the hang of breastfeeding you may sense that “feel good hormone” known as oxytocin, this hormone drives the letdown reflex when you begin each session. Along with that dose of oxytocin, breastfeeding also helps your body regulate all those postpartum hormones.
How to support yourself during breastfeeding:
Most importantly, nourish yourself. Your body will be working constantly to produce milk. When you are well taken care of so is your baby. While you are in nesting mode focus on preparing freezer meals so you don’t have to worry bout what to eat after you give birth. I always loved prepping oatmeal muffins and breakfast casseroles to ensure I started each day well fed. We always say to try and hit at least 2400 calories a day.
Drink plenty of water! You will be pleasantly surprised how much this will help your milk supply. And take your vitamins, we recommend focusing on magnesium (there are different forms so be mindful) and beef organs (liver specially) to help your body replenish all the minerals that were depleted when you gave birth. Sticking to a minimum of 150oz of water a day is a great goal!
Have a support system, whether it be a sister in law who breastfed her six children, a lactation consultant or even your chiropractor. Being able to lean on someone when things get tough will make a huge difference!
Get adjusted. You will quickly learn that you will sacrifice your own comfort if it means keeping your baby happy. This will quickly lead to all sorts of aches and pains. Also keep in mind what your body just went through to bring your baby into this world. Keeping your nervous system regulated will help tremendously as you recover and go through the different phases of motherhood.
There is so much to be said and learned when it comes to breastfeeding. If you find yourself on this journey and you need some guidance or resources please don’t hesitate to bring it up at your next appointment.
Sources:
https://www.health4mom.org/breastfeeding-postpartum-depression/
