There's nothing more natural and beautiful than breastfeeding your baby. God created our breasts to feed and nourish our precious babies. I am pro breastfeeding, and breastfed both of my children. However, I also realize not all women choose to, or can breastfeed. So, another option is using formula. You may also be on the fence. I am hoping to help you make the right decision for you and your precious gift from the Lord. I truly believe, if at all possible though, breastfeeding is the absolute best option. Whether you choose to breastfeed, or formula feed your baby, there are advantages and disadvantages for the new mom and her baby. Let's look at both and see the comparisons. Advantages of Breastfeeding for Baby and Mom - Baby will be protected from developing allergies - It can protect baby from various illnesses because breast milk contains antibodies - It creates a very special bond between baby and mother - Mother's milk contains essential nutrients and vitamins for a … [Read more...]
Breastfeeding Diet: Foods to Avoid While Nursing
While you were pregnant you may have found yourself craving certain foods. Now that you’ve decided to breastfeed, you may also have found that not all foods are good for you or your newborn. When you consider your breastfeeding diet, do you know what foods to avoid or limit while nursing? Unfortunately the list of items to limit or avoid isn’t the same for every breastfeeding mother and child. Some babies don’t react to spicy foods whereas there are others that will be miserable whenever mom decides to eat something with extra spices. One way to learn about what is acceptable to your baby while you’re breastfeeding is to pay attention to how they react the day after you’ve eaten certain foods you’re not sure about. The baby may develop extremely painful gas cramps or be particularly fussy when you eat some foods. Pay attention to what you’re eating and then try to make a correlation between your diet and how your baby reacts. Common foods that moms have learned to avoid while … [Read more...]
The First Week with your Baby
The first week of your baby's life brings big adjustments for both of you. You are adjusting to being a mother and caring for your baby and your baby is adjusting to life outside the womb. It is a time of great joy -- and possibly immense fear! Although you've been preparing for the birth of your baby for months, now he is here and depending on you for everything which can seem overwhelming. Don't expect too much of yourself during these first days! If anyone offers you help -- take it! During your baby's first few weeks of life, he will be concentrating on getting to know you and his surroundings. Your baby needs to be handled so that life outside the womb seems as little different as possible to life inside the womb. Your baby's needs, while they may seem overwhelming to you, are really simple: food, warmth and comfort from cuddling. Wrap him snugly and warmly, hold him closely, handle him slowly, and feed him when he's hungry. Your baby … [Read more...]
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