Breastfeeding and SIDS

This week a lot is being said in the news and newspapers around the world about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, SIDS, and breastfeeding. SIDS is the single most leading cause of death among infants in the United States. Parents can help prevent SIDS by infants being placed on the backs to sleep instead of putting your baby on its stomach to sleep.A new study published in the Journal of Pediatrics, states that breastfeeding your baby helps protect against SIDS. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months and then introducing solid foods while breastfeeding for the next 6 months. Babies who are breastfed for at least 6 months are significantly less likely to die of SIDS. Breastfeeding helps reduce other illnesses such as ear infections, stomach viruses, diarrhea and respiratory infections because breast milk contains great antibodies to help fight off these infections.Breastfed babies learn to coordinate swallowing and breathing better. Breastfed babies have a much better alignment of their jaws and muscles which help keep their airways open. Additionally, breast milk does not irritate the airways therefore, an infant breathes better. Breastfed babies tend to have fewer reflux problems, which can increase the risk of SIDS. In conclusion, breastfeeding your baby decreases the risk of SIDS. Breastfeeding is an excellent source of nutrition for your baby.Promotion and initiating breastfeeding in hospitals need to continue so more moms will breastfeed their baby.