Breastfeeding can offer a range of advantages to babies, and for women who are about to deliver a first child, this can be an interesting option to consider when developing a parenting plan.
A study released in the Archives of Disease in Childhood revealed that breastfeeding may be helpful in improving a child's chances of climbing the social ladder and effectively navigating other challenges that may occur as adults.
Researchers examined findings from more than 34,000 people who were born sometime between the 1950s and 1970s, and, as a result, came to several compelling conclusions, including those who were breastfed were 24 percent more inclined to be socially mobile and 20 percent less likely to lose popularity or social standing.
"There are few studies that look at the long-term outcomes of breastfeeding, but this study shows its long-lasting positive effect," said Amanda Sacker, co-author, professor and the director of the International Centre for Lifecourse Studies in Society and Health at University College London.
The researchers classified the participants into four categories, ranging from skilled to unskilled to semi-skilled to professional or managerial.
"Perhaps the combination of physical contact and the most appropriate nutrients required for growth and brain development is implicated in the better neurocognitive and adult outcomes of breastfed infants," the authors added.
Benefits of breastfeeding
During their new born preparation, moms-to-be can enjoy a tremendous boost in confidence by learning more about the benefits of breastfeeding, which offers an all-natural and nurturing way for women to connect with their children on an emotional level.
Breastfeeding is recommended by many experts because it can help give babies a healthy start to their lives, which can be incredibly beneficial in protecting against a range of illnesses.
Breastfeeding may be good in reducing or preventing the occurrence of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes as well as high cholesterol and inflammatory bowel disease.
Some medical experts believe that secretory IgA, which is only available in breast milk, may give babies an essential layer of protection against potential issues that could occur in the intestinal tract, and may reduce the likelihood of allergies and other problems.
But perhaps more importantly, breastfeeding allows women to connect with their babies and feel a stronger maternal bond, which can truly help make the experience of becoming a mother more worthwhile.