Final answer:
Breastfeeding has several benefits, including weight loss for the mother, healthy weight for the baby, reduced risk of cancer, and protection against infections. It is also free, can serve as a form of contraception, and promotes bonding between mother and child.
Step-by-step explanation:
Breastfeeding has several benefits for both the mother and the baby. Some of the benefits include:
- Helps with weight loss for the mother: Breastfeeding burns calories and can help the mother lose weight gained during pregnancy.
- Babies are more likely to have a healthy weight: Breast milk provides the right balance of nutrients for the baby's growth and development, reducing the risk of obesity.
- Babies are less prone to asthma and allergies: Breast milk contains antibodies that can protect the baby from developing asthma and allergies.
- Reduced risk of cancer in the mother: Breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer in the mother.
- It's free: Breast milk is readily available and does not require any additional cost.
- Can serve as a form of contraception: Breastfeeding can have an amenorrheic effect, which means it can delay the return of menstruation and serve as a natural form of contraception.
- Babies are less likely to develop infections: Breast milk contains antibodies that can protect the baby from infections and strengthen their immune system.
- Promotes bonding between mother and child: Breastfeeding provides an intimate and bonding experience between the mother and the baby.
Complete question:
Which of the following are benefits of breastfeeding? Select all that apply.
a. Helps with weight loss for mother
b. Babies are more likely to have a healthy weight
c. Babies are less prone to asthma and allergies
d. Reduced risk of cancer in the mother
e. It's free
f. Can serve as a form of contraception
g. Babies are less likely to develop infections
h. Promotes bonding between mother and child