As many of you know, I have treasured my experience breast feeding my daughter as much as any experience of my life!
I know not everyone has circumstances that make breastfeeding easy to do, or even possible. And to moms who for whatever reason are not able to nurse their babies, please know I am not judging you in any way – your baby feels your love in a million other ways! But for moms who really have it in their hearts to breastfeed, and are struggling with it- a new study just came out that may really give you some encouragement!
You can read about the study HERE.
But, the basic conclusion of the study is that… the lives of nearly 900 babies could be saved each year, along with billions of dollars, if 90 percent of U.S. women breast-fed their babies for the first six months of life!
The American Academy of Pediatrics has said that “The health care system has got to be made aware that breast-feeding makes a profound difference.” And the study findings suggest that there are hundreds of deaths, and many more costly illnesses each year from health problems that breast-feeding may help prevent.
Some of these illnesses include stomach viruses, ear infections, asthma, juvenile diabetes, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and even childhood leukemia! The study also goes on to talk about the billions of dollars that could be saved by breastfeeding becoming even more main stream.
So many people think of breastfeeding as a lifestyle choice, or what “hippy” moms do – but in reality it’s a public health issue. Not to mention an OUTSTANDING way to snuggle and bond with your baby during the day:)
If you haven’t read the study – I really encourage too! It’s good stuff!
Halley says
I love the second picture…so cute!! I miss breastfeeding my babies. Thanks for posting.
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. tiny twist creative . says
I definitely believe mother’s milk is the best milk. It is by no means foolproof, (my son was hospitalized at 3 months with the flu and was only breast-fed), but definitely has so many positive and healthy impacts on the kids. Great post!
.-= . tiny twist creative . ´s last blog ..designs from life | sisters =-.
Nikki says
thanks for this info Shan!!! As you know I’ve never breastfed, but whenever it happens that I’ll have the choice to, I’m definetly in!! 🙂 especially if I get to wear one of those cutesy nursing covers:)
.-= Nikki´s last blog ..Would you want to live UNDERWATER? =-.
Nikki says
i subscribe to rodale.com’s newsletter and was reading it and found this on breastfeeding! so funny, its says the same thing about breastfeeding – http://www.rodale.com/breastfeeding-advantages
.-= Nikki´s last blog ..Would you want to live UNDERWATER? =-.
Angelia Sims says
I breastfed Sydney for 9 months. I had gone back to work when she was 3 mos old and had to pump in the bathroom. I tried renting one of those double breast pumps. DIDN’T work! I had to use the little battery operated hand held one. The only thing they got my milk to come down. It was worth EVERY second. Sydney has been very healthy. She weaned herself at nine months and I am so grateful I was able to do that even with a full time job.
It was precious to me, even more so since I couldn’t have any more pregnancies.
Great, great article Shannon!
.-= Angelia Sims´s last blog ..I quit =-.
Grace says
I am definitely an advocate for breastfeeding your baby…tho I understand, like you, that not every mother is able to do it…and I wish there was a stronger push for it overall and more help for mothers who struggle with it. Glad to read the article and to be reaffirmed that my decision to breastfeed my children is the right one. Thanks for sharing this important info!
Blessings, Grace
.-= Grace´s last blog ..Happy Resurrection Day!!! =-.
Mimi says
I nursed all 4 of my kids! My last child was nursed until just after his 2nd bday. I still miss that sweetness we shared. He’s now almost 7. Seeing the photo at the top actually makes me want to cry because I miss that precious time!
I know that there are moms out there who can’t nurse their babies or choose, for whatever reason, to not breastfeed. You’re right that there are so many ways for babies to know they’re loved. Thanks for sharing!
~Mimi @ Woven by Words
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Melissa Cleaver says
You’ve got a really great blog here!
Happy FF! I’m your newest follower! If you get a chance, will you please stop by and follow me too at http://www.mommylivingthelifeofriley.com
Have a great weekend!
.-= Melissa Cleaver´s last blog ..*** REVIEW & GIVEAWAY *** Energizer Emergency Preparedness Pack ~ $70 =-.