Breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is a subject that I have recently become interested in.  My boyfriend and I talked about having kids one day and since he and his sisters were breastfeed, he insists that I breastfeed our future kids.  There are several reasons why I have considered breasting. One reason is because it is free and formula is so expensive. Another reason is because it breastfeeding is the healthiest and natural form of nutrition for babies. It also helps prevent some childhood diseases. Breast milk also contains essential antibodies. Breastfeeding also always the mother to bond with her baby in a way that no one else will have the opportunity to do so.


In countries like Africa, breastfeeding is gaining more attention.  In Johannesburg, The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) has set up the "Declaration of Support for Breastfeeding in South Africa". This movement encourages mothers to exclusively breastfeed for six months.  It is also a way to promote breastfeeding and also save babies lives in Africa.  In most other countries, breastfeeding is encouraged and rates are higher.  In the United States, it is not as popular because breasts are seen as sexual objects instead of natures "baby bottles". 


If more mothers breastfed their babies, there maybe a decrease in illnesses. Children's immune systems may have a fighting chance at becoming stronger. A decrease in illnesses means that children will spend more time in school or childcare being educated instead of home sick. It also means that parents will be able to work or go to school themselves without the fear of caring or a sick child.  Breastfeeding is a "win-win" situation for all involved.


I guess you can say that my boyfriend and I are like night and day. He was breastfed and seems to only get sick once or twice per year. I, on the other hand, seem to catch anything that goes around as soon as I come into contact with it.