This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a commission if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
I’m entering my 40th month – yes, 40th! – of breastfeeding, between all 3 of my children. There are tons of things I’ve learned along the way about how to nurse a baby and have a great experience breastfeeding, so I wanted to share a few of the little nuggets I’ve learned + the Best Advice About Breastfeeding real moms to help you out as well.
Note – this post is sponsored by Evivo – get $10 off an 4-week Evivo Probiotics Starter Kit with codeBLOG6081 or get $20 off an 8-week or greater sized Evivo Starter Kit with code BLOG6082. Each code will only be valid for the first 50 redemptions and will expire on 5/31/18 or after all 50 redemptions have been made.
When I delivered my first baby (Quinn) I didn’t really know much about breastfeeding, aside from the fact that I wanted to try it. I set a goal to nurse for 6 months and, in the beginning, it was really hard. But I stuck with it and we lasted 14 months. With my second (Cooper), we nursed for 12 months. I’m approaching month 13 with Emmy and I’m not sure when we’ll stop.
There are tons of things I’ve learned along the way, one of which is how important the first 6 months of baby’s life is for autoimmune and metabolic development. Probiotics are EVERYWHERE these days and it’s so cool that we’re starting to better understand how gut health affects overall health in both babies and adults.
Basically, when good bacteria is present in the gut, it creates a strong, protective wall to crowd out the bad bacteria. There’s been a rise in medical procedures like c-sections (I had one with Quinn and the downside is that good bacteria passed during vaginal delivery just doesn’t happen with a cesarean) and antibiotics used during labor (extremely important!) that have wiped out both bad bacteria and hurt the presence of good bacteria. In a study with University of California, babies given Evivo saw an 80% reduction in potentially harmful bacteria such as E. coli, clostridia, Staph and Strep. That’s nuts. Bad bacteria in baby’s gut is linked to a higher risk of autoimmune and metabolic issues like colic, eczema, allergies, diabetes, and obesity later in life – I would do anything to help my babe avoid struggling with any of those issues. You just mix in the Evivo with breastmilk and give it to baby daily – so easy! I’m (obviously) not a medical professional so please ask your pediatrician if you have any questions :).
And here are other little knowledge bombs you need to know if you’re a nursing mom (or mom-to-be!):
What’s best advice you’ve ever gotten about breastfeeding?
More Breastfeeding & Pumping Resources:
photos by Liz Olson Photography
Mel says
A MUST is check out Dr. Jack Newman! He has so much info their for new moms and he has troubleshooting breastfeeding for all types of issues breastfeeding fom new moms to moms and babies with health issues. He also has videos and a book!his website has free videos! Just google him youll find his website. Latching issues, low milk supply, baby weight gain,…. tongue tie,.
Mel says
A proper latch is key! Dr. Jack Newman advises that a proper latch is asymmetrical. He has a wealth of information about proper latching and he shows how you will KNOW your baby is getting the milk. You can actually know with each gulp by observing a certain thing the baby does while he/she is feeding. Chek out his website. Its free. Also he does sell a book. But his free website is easier because you can just watch. I hope this helps a mama and her baby.