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Why is
human milk the best choice?
Breastfeeding is easy and convenient. No preparation,
warming or sterilization of milk or equipment is necessary.
No last minute trips to the store are ever needed.
The first milk the baby receives is called colostrum.
Colostrum, which plays a major role in passing on immune
properties to the infant, is high in protein and
carbohydrates.
Breastfed infants have fewer incidences of illnesses such
as colds, diarrhea, or ear infections, and fewer hospital
admissions.
Breastfed infants are less likely to develop into
overweight children or adults in later life. Babies can
nurse until they are full, thus learning to control their
intake of food according to hunger, rather than being
encouraged to take a pre-determined amount.
Breastfeeding enhances bonding and encourages a close
relationship between mother and baby.
Human milk has a lower iron content than formula but the
iron is absorbed more efficiently be the infant, partially
due to vitamin C levels in human milk.
Breastfeeding contributes to proper jaw and mouth
development because of the way the breast is suckled and the
strong, repeated sucking at the breast. Breastfed infants
tend to have fewer incidences of severe dental problems and
are less likely to need orthodontic corrections.
Breastfed babies are less apt to have allergies because
mothers milk contains antibodies which prevent the
absorption of allergy-provoking proteins.
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