Breastfeeding-You Can Do It!

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You’ve heard it said many times before “The Breast Is Best.” In most cases, with the exception of allergic babies and those who should not breast feed, this theory still holds true. Breast or mothers milk as it is often referred to, is quite possibly the world’s most perfect food. It contains easily digestible proteins, and a wealth of factors that support your new baby’s immature immune system as well as aides in digestion. It is virtually free and requires almost no preparation. The benefits of breast feeding your baby are numerous. Fewer instances of colic, upper respiratory infections, constipation, ear infections, asthma and allergies are just a few of the benefits. If that wasn’t enough reason to breast feed your baby, consider the fact that breast feeding mothers burn close to five hundred extra calories per day! How is that for motivation?! Many mothers return to their pre-pregnancy weight much sooner than non-breast feeding Moms.

Although, breast feeding has many benefits to both mother and baby, there are certain steps to consider to help maximize your chances of breast feeding effectively.

Some newborn babies do not immediately take to the breast. There are certain steps a mother can take immediately after baby’s arrival to help him along. Try to breast feed him right after he is born and before he is taken to the hospital nursery. Before you deliver, state your wish to room with your baby so that you can feed him on demand when he is hungry. Also, instruct the nursery staff not to give supplemental bottles unless indicated by your doctor. If this does occur, ask that you be notified so that you can appropriately adjust your feeding times. For some newborn babies, introduction of a bottle can throw him completely off track. It would be wise to ask that any supplementation be given by a lactation aid, feeding finger or a cup. This will increase your chances of having baby develop a preference for the breast.

Most hospitals provide you with a consultation from a lactation nurse. Don’t pass up this opportunity! She will be able to provide you with valuable tips and information and will be able to address your questions and concerns before you take your new baby home.

Once you are home, the quality of your breast milk seriously depends on you. Do not smoke. Smoking is directly associated with poor milk production as well as many other negative effects on children, newborn babies especially. Follow a well-balanced diet. Make sure to consume about 2000-2700 calories a day. Remember your diet will become your baby’s diet so eat lots of healthy fruits, vegetables, and protein. Continue to eat like you did when you were pregnant and your new baby will get the proper nutrition through your breast milk.

Certain products like the Earth Mama Angel Baby breast feeding kit can also help you to maintain proper nutrition within your breast milk. This kit contains milkmaid tea with organic herbs such as fennel seed and stinging nettle. Also, vitamin and mineral rich to naturally induce lactation by stimulating breast milk. They also serve as digestion aides for both mom and baby. This kit includes many other items a breast feeding mom will find helpful.

For some new moms, breast feeding can be painful. There are many products on the market that can ease the discomfort of constant contact with your breasts. One of our “Mom Favorites” is our Earth Mama Angel Baby Organic Nipple Butter. It is a rich, all-natural and plant-based balm made with certified organic oil infused with healing herbs such as calendula, as well as healing cocoa butter, shea butter and mango butter. This luscious nipple cream blend helps protect and moisturize nipples in order to prevent them from becoming sore and cracked. It's safe for both nursing mamas and babies and it contains no lanolin or other animal by-products.

With a lot patience, love and sometimes help from Dad or family members, breast feeding can be an enjoyable experience for both mother and new baby. By following these simple guidelines you will not only bond with your baby but you will have ensured his the best possible start to good health throughout his life.

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