Today marks the first day of World Breastfeeding Week, an observance started in 1992 to promote universal breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is highly beneficial for infants. Studies have shown that breastfed babies are less likely to suffer from infections, less likely to be overweight, and more open to various foods as adults. Breastfeeding has been shown to help raise a baby’s IQ.

Breastfeeding provides benefits to the mom too. When a baby nurses, the mother’s body responds by releasing the hormone oxytocin, which encourages her to bond with her baby. Oxytocin also helps to shrink the uterus. Plus, breastfeeding moms lose weight more quickly, because breastfeeding burns 500 calories a day!

So, for mom’s who want smart, healthy babies that like Chinese food, and who want to get their hot pre-pregnancy body back a little faster, breastfeeding is a great option. Plus, it’s free!

Related Links:

• World Breastfeeding Week Information (Source: Unicef)
• Video: Breastfeeding Basics (Source: Sex Health Guru)
• Breastfeeding Fact Sheet (Source: The Centers for Disease Control)