[Research] Breastfeeding and childhood behavior linked
A new research study published Tuesday indicates breastfeeding and childhood behavior is linked. Children breastfed exclusively for their first six months have an easier time behaving as students at the primary level, particularly ages 7 to 11. The study assessed over 150,000 children in South Africa.
The study, published in the PLOS medical journey, found that kids exclusively breastfed for their first six months—as recommended by the World Health Organization—were 56 percent less likely to exhibit behavioral disorders than those breastfed for less than one month.
“The duration of exclusive breastfeeding of an infant has greater importance than previously realized in several areas of development,” said Tamsen Rochat of the Human Science Research Council in Durban, a lead author of the Canadian government-financed study. Read more on the study here or see the original published research at PLOS Medicine.
Moms share intimate stories alongside stunning breastfeeding photo shoot
One of the best ways to work through any struggles or obstacles you face in your breastfeeding journey is to find the beauty that exists in what you are doing for both you and your baby. That is exactly what the recent photoshoot by Cheyanne Booker does. The project pairs incredibly beautiful photos of mothers feeding their children alongside each moms personal story of how she struggled in her motherhood journey. Booker took on the project after having difficulties of her own with breastfeeding.
“I was the first mother in my family to breastfeed a baby, so I had no idea what I was doing,” Booker, 20, tells PEOPLE. “My daughter nursed every 10 minutes or so throughout the day, and it was overwhelming. I also couldn’t pump milk whatsoever. I was convinced she was starving, and I truly felt that my body was not working how it was supposed to be.”
Photographer Cheyanne Booker
Check out Booker’s Facebook page and more stories here.
Top breastfeeding apps
Some moms are completely comfortable going with the flow with their babies, but for some, letting go and listening to those “motherly instincts” people talk about is not so simple. Having some guidance and help can go a long way. Breastfeeding apps are popping up right and left to help with everything from remember which side you last fed on and tracking how long your baby nurses to finding recommended “safe” public places to nurse as recommended by other moms. Check out these 9 recommended breastfeeding apps here.
