Breastfeeding has been shown to have a number of health benefits for both mothers and babies. One of the most well-known benefits is that it can help to reduce the risk of postpartum depression. However, it can also have a positive impact on a mother’s cardiovascular health.
A study published in the journal Circulation found that women who breastfed for at least 12 months had a lower risk of developing heart disease than women who did not breastfeed. The study also found that the benefits of it lasted for at least 3 years after the mother stopped breastfeeding.
Another study, published in the journal Breastfeed Medicine, found that women who breastfed for at least 6 months had a lower risk of developing high blood pressure than women who did not breastfeed. The study also found that the benefits of breastfeeding were even greater for women who had a family history of high blood pressure.
While the exact mechanism through which it safeguards against cardiovascular disease remains not entirely comprehended, researchers speculate that it could potentially diminish inflammation, enhance insulin sensitivity, and reduce cholesterol levels.
If you are considering breastfeeding, I encourage you to talk to your doctor about the benefits of breastfeeding for your cardiovascular health. It is a wonderful way to bond with your baby and it can also help to improve your own health.
Here are some other health benefits of breastfeeding:
- Reduces the risk of ovarian cancer and breast cancer
- Helps to lose weight after pregnancy
- Boosts the immune system
- Provides antibodies that can protect the baby from infection
- Promotes healthy brain development
If you are not able to breastfeed, there are other ways to improve your cardiovascular health. These include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking.