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The decision to breastfeed is a personal matter for the mother, but it's important to understand the benefits of breastfeeding for the baby and the amazing benefits of breast milk. Doctors and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend exclusive breastfeeding for six months and continued breastfeeding for the first year of a baby's life.

Breastfeeding Benefits for Babies:

Breast milk is the greatest gift a mother can give her baby. It contains vitamins, minerals, and proteins, all of which a baby needs for healthy growth. Breast milk is also easier to digest than other milks.

• Breast milk also contains antibodies that help your baby's body fight bacteria and viruses and reduce the risk of asthma or allergies.
• In addition, when your baby develops illnesses such as diarrhea or respiratory illnesses, they have a faster recovery rate than formula-fed babies.
• Studies have also shown a link between breastfeeding and higher IQs in childhood.
• The benefits of eye and physical contact between mother and baby, and the baby's sense of security and bonding with their mother, are also significant.
• Breastfeeding plays a protective role for the child, protecting him from the risk of diabetes, obesity, and some types of cancer.

Benefits of breastfeeding for the mother:

During breastfeeding, the hormone oxytocin is released, which helps the uterus return to its normal size and reduces uterine bleeding after delivery. Breastfeeding also helps lose pregnancy weight more quickly and reduces the risk of breast cancer and ovarian cysts.

Signs of a Hungry Baby:

The most common sign of a newborn's hunger is crying. Most often, a baby's crying tells you they're hungry. Other signs include:

• Opening the mouth
• Putting a fist in the mouth
• Posting out the tongue
• Sucking the lips
• Sucking on objects or hands
• Moving the mouth or head in search of the breast

Duration of Breastfeeding:

There is no specific number of times a baby should breastfeed, as it depends on your baby's preference.
However, it's usually best for a newborn to breastfeed every 2-3 hours, and after six months, most babies breastfeed every 4-5 hours.

Correct Breastfeeding Positions:

Make sure to clean the nipple with a damp cloth before breastfeeding, and follow the following:

• Sit with your back straight so that your back and feet are supported.
• Wrap your arms around your baby's back and bring them close to you.
• Place your hand under your baby's neck and shoulder instead of their head to help them position themselves properly for breastfeeding.
• You can use pillows for a better position.
• Bring your baby to your breast, keeping your back straight.
• Ensure that your nipple touches your baby's upper lip.
• Stroking your baby's mouth with your nipple will help them open their mouth in response to breastfeeding.
• Make sure your baby nurses from both breasts and alternate between feedings.
• If you breastfeed from one breast, use the other for the next feeding, and so on.

The Most Important Foods During Breastfeeding:

It is important to focus on eating foods that increase milk production, such as:

• Proteins (lean meats and dairy products).
• Whole grains, such as beans and lentils.
• Seafood.
• Fruits and vegetables.

Make sure you and your baby are getting all the vitamins they need.

Is Your Baby Getting Enough Breast Milk?

Breastfeeding mothers often wonder whether breastfeeding is sufficient for their baby.
There are some signs that indicate your baby is getting enough milk:

• The baby doesn't lose more than 7% of his or her birth weight in the postpartum period.
• Changing at least 6 diapers daily.