Breastfeeding and Diabetes

We all know that diabetes is an epidemic in the U.S.  Now, new research suggests that moms who breastfeed are half as likely to get Type 2 Diabetes.  Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh studied more than 2000 women aged 40 to 78.  They found that 27 percent of mothers who didn't brastfeed developed Type 2 Diabetes which was double the rate of those who breastfed or never gave birth.

Gaining weight during pregnancy is important because the fat gained helps the baby develop.  But, after birth, if you continue to gain weight, that puts you at risk for Type 2 Diabetes.  Breastfeeding helps new moms lose that baby weight.

So go for it if you can.  But if you can't breastfeed, or choose not to, formula is the next best thing.  It's full of nutrients that mimic breastmilk and has the right amount of fats and protein to help your baby develop.  The key here is diet and exercise for moms who are struggling to lose the weight.