World Breastfeeding Awareness Week takes place annually during the first week of August, aiming to promote and encourage breastfeeding.
It’s a natural way to nourish infants and a unique bonding experience that offers a range of health advantages for mothers.
Mandy Lindberg, a lactation specialist with the Birth and Beyond Support Group at Loma Linda University Health, highlights some of the benefits of breastfeeding.
“Breastfeeding helps protect mothers against ovarian and breast cancer while reducing the risk of heart disease,” said Lindberg.
“Additionally, every time a mother breastfeeds, her body releases oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” which fosters a strong emotional bond with the baby and promotes better sleep.”
One intriguing aspect of breastfeeding is that moms share antibodies with their babies, which helps them develop a robust immune system and protects them from illness.
Lindberg explains that when a baby latches onto the breast, their saliva contains vital information about their environment.
