Breastfeeding offers many advantages for your baby and you. Your Houston, TX, pediatricians, Dr. Heena Thakkar and Dr. Shilpa Pankaj of Peekaboo Pediatrics can help you adjust to breastfeeding and enjoy these benefits of the natural feeding method.

Fewer colds

Antibodies, proteins that identify and destroy germs, are passed from you to your baby through your breast milk. Breastfeeding offers an excellent way to bolster your child's immune system and lower the risk of colds and other viral illnesses.

Prevention of illnesses and diseases

Breastfeeding doesn't just help your baby avoid the sniffles. It may also prevent or reduce the frequency of these illnesses and diseases:

• Whooping cough
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Bacterial meningitis
• Pneumonia
• Ear infections
• Childhood leukemia
• Asthma
• Eczema
• Childhood obesity
• Type 2 diabetes

Breastfeeding also offers health protection for you. According to the Office on Women's Health, breastfeeding reduces the risk of some kinds of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

Enhanced bonding

Feeding your baby, no matter which method you choose, helps you forge a special connection with your baby. Nursing can help promote bonding by stimulating the release of prolactin and oxytocin, hormones that make you feel relaxed, nurturing, and loving.

Quicker recovery from childbirth

Oxytocin helps your uterus may return to its normal size more quickly and reduces bleeding after you give birth.

Better for your budget

Formula costs up to a few hundred dollars per month, depending on the brand. Fortunately, breastmilk is free and readily available, which can help you balance your budget.

A more convenient feeding option

With absolutely no preparation required, breastfeeding offers the most convenient method to feed your child. It's particularly convenient for middle-of-the-night feedings when the last thing you want to do is prepare and warm a bottle.

You'll also save room in your diaper bag or backpack when you go on major trips on outings in the Houston area. There's no need to pack bottles, nipples, and a supply of formula when you're breastfeeding your baby.

Do you have a few questions or concerns about breastfeeding? Call your pediatricians in Houston, TX, Dr. Heena Thakkar and Dr. Shilpa Pankaj of Peekaboo Pediatrics, at (713) 861-4800.