By, Julie Casillas, Registered Dietitian / Breastfeeding Coordinator

Nothing is more nutritious and more important to the
development of a newborn baby than a mother’s breast milk. August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, and here are a few facts about how important and healthy breastfeeding is to both the baby and the nursing mother.

Breastfeeding helps nursing mothers get their “girlish” figure back

Although breastfeeding does help burn calories, there are many other healthy reasons breastfeeding is healthy for the nursing mother. Breastfeeding is known to lower the risk of both breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Also, the hormones released during breastfeeding a baby helps with the shrinking of the mother’s uterus.

Breast milk vs. Formula

A mothers’ breast milk provides nutrients and antibodies that store-bought formula cannot match. These nutrients help stimulate an infant’s immune system, increase brain development, aid proper digestion and lower the chance of childhood obesity, whereas formula has been linked to increased rates of diarrhea and ear infections. The long-term benefits of breastfeeding an infant include a lowered chance of asthma, allergies, and some cancers as well as lowered chances of stroke and heart attack later in life.

Come help support breastfeeding in our community by being a part of the 5th Annual Breastfeeding Awareness Walk and Celebration

Saturday, August 7, 2010
Roeding Park
Umbrella Grove (front entrance)
Check-in: 8:00 a.m.
Walk begins: 9:00 a.m.

No Event Registration Fee
Free tee-shirts
To register, please visit: www.babiesfirstfresno.com

Click here to test your knowledge on breastfeeding