Grandpa Richard's Kids

A updated study (as reported in the journal Pediatrics) suggests that billions of dollars could be saved in the United states if mothers breastfed their babies for 6 months. It has been reported that some hospitals push formula even when the mother wants to breastfeed. The study confirms the oft handed down notion that breastfeeding should start as soon after birth as possible.

From the journal’s abstract …

A 2001 study revealed that $3.6 billion could be saved if breastfeeding rates were increased to levels of the Healthy People objectives. It studied 3 diseases and totalled direct and indirect costs and cost of premature death. The 2001 study can be updated by using current breastfeeding rates and adding additional diseases analyzed in the 2007 breastfeeding report from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

Further more …

The lives of nearly 900 babies would be saved each year, along with billions of dollars, if 90 per cent of U.S. women breastfed their babies for the first six months of life, a cost analysis says.

“The health care system has got to be aware that breastfeeding makes a profound difference,” said Dr. Ruth Lawrence, who heads the American Academy of Pediatrics’ breastfeeding section.

The findings suggest there are hundreds of deaths and many more costly illnesses each year from health problems that breastfeeding may help prevent. These include stomach viruses, ear infections, asthma, juvenile diabetes, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and even childhood leukemia.

Even when Grandpa Richard was raising children (starting 30+ years ago) it was well known that breast milk contains antibodies that help fight infections. It also can affect insulin levels in the blood, which may make breastfed babies less likely to develop diabetes and obesity.

About 43 per cent of U.S. mothers do at least some breastfeeding for six months, but only 12 per cent follow government guidelines recommending that babies receive only breast milk for six months.

If you are a non-breastfeeding mom, like some that have sent me scathing emails over the years, keep this in mind. Why are you not breastfeeding? Is it due to some health-related challenge, or inconvenience? Is it because your family dynamics require you to work full time (ever heard of breast pumps?) or the idea just turns you off?

If you are physically able to breastfeed, consider your child’s future health. Yes, many formula fed babies do just fine, but many people who refuse to wear a seatbelt also live to a ripe old age. The statistics are there. The stats do not say your baby will suffer. The stats say that there is a better chance of great health if they are breastfed.

If possible, I urge you to do what nature intended. If truly not possible, do not feel guilty. If not possible, work with your health care professional to find alternatives that increase your baby’s chance at a great and healthy future.