Breastfeeding: What's In It for Mom?

We all know that breastmilk is the perfect food for newborns. The American Academy of Pediatrics enthusiastically supports breastfeeding for today's infants. Breastmilk is  a live food, easily digested, and helps prevent allergies and ear infections in little ones.

But what about the benefits for mom? Beyond the obvious benefits of convenience (no bottles) and low cost (free), how does breastfeeding benefit a new mom?

• Biggest loser. Breastfeeding moms lose their pregnancy weight easily since they are burning an extra  500 calories a day.
• Keep the tata's. Breastfeeding helps reduce a woman's chance of getting breast and other reproductive cancers.
• Chill time. The hormones responsible for milk production also help mom relax. Oxytocin, relaxin and other hormones released when breastfeeding are calming.

When it comes to taking care of mom and baby, breastfeeding accomplishes both.