Why is Breastfeeding So Important?

In today’s high pace society, it may seem easier to bottle-feed your baby as opposed to breastfeeding him or her. While breastfeeding may take time, it is a great way for you to bond with your baby, as well as to just relax and enjoy the experience. Studies also show that breastfeeding protects babies and mommies from many diseases and illnesses.

Breastfeeding ONLY breast milk (no water, formula, or anything else) for the first 6 months protects your baby from:
• Diarrhea
• Respiratory tract infection, including RSV
• Ear Infections
• Urinary Tract Infections
• Diabetes
• Lymphoma, leukemia, and Hodgkins disease
• SIDS – Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
• Bacterial meningitis
• Bacteremia
• Necrotizing enterocolitis
• Crohn’s Disease
• Childhood and adolescent obesity
• Breastfed babies have less allergies
• Asthma

Breastfeeding protects mothers from:
• Heart Disease
• Hemorrhage or heavy bleeding after baby is born
• Breast cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Osteoporosis
• Breastfeeding also helps moms lose weight faster

Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center became the first Baby-Friendly Hospital in Nevada, and is currently the only facility with this designation in Nothern Nevada. Baby-Friendly is a designation given by the Baby-Friendly USA organization in conjunction with WHO/UNICEF to hospitals that meet all requirements of Baby-Friendly and pass their on-site survey. Baby-Friendly hospitals, by meeting the requirements, protect, promote, and support breastfeeding to ensure the best outcomes for babies and mommies. For more information, visit here.