Breastfeeding is better for the baby - true or false?

Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended by WHO, (world health organization) for babies up to six months old and continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods up to two years or beyond. People often talk about the advantages of breastfeeding and the many health benefits that come with it. But is this true or false? We debunk the myths below.

Is breastfeeding better for the baby’s health?

There are several studies showing that breastfeeding is better for the baby’s health. Together with the recommendations from WHO, it's easy to believe that breastfeeding is crucial for healthy child development. However, these findings are often exaggerated and several other factors also play a part. A recent study questions the connection and shows that there’s no major link between the two. However, in countries where there is no easy access to clean water, breastfeeding, when possible, can be a safer choice.

Is it true that babies who don’t breastfeed may struggle with attachment?

Skin-to-skin contact is proven to be good for attachment with your baby. A common misconception is that your baby will have trouble bonding if you’re not breastfeeding. This is not true. It doesn’t matter how you feed your baby. Breast or bottle, you can still have a cozy, snug, skin-to-skin moment together.

Does breastfeeding make my baby smarter?

A widely reported study suggested that breastfed babies are more intelligent, and the longer they're breastfed, the more intelligent they tend to be. However, Dr. Stuart Ritchie of the Centre for Cognitive Ageing at the University of Edinburgh points out that this is more likely explained by the fact that parents who are more intelligent tend to breastfeed. Implying that smart parents equal smart babies. He also refers to a study from 2013, showing that "the initial positive effect of breastfeeding on IQ disappeared or diminished" in studies that also looked at parental IQ.

Breastfeeding equals clingy babies?

A common myth is that breastfeeding your baby will make them extra clingy. Just because being skin-to-skin and breastfeeding promotes attachment, it doesn’t mean that your baby will be overly dependant as a result. All babies are unique and have their own personalities. Some like to cuddle, while others are curious and are more interested in exploring the world. It has nothing to do with the food they eat.

Breastfeeding with products from Najell

Did you know that all of our products are designed with breastfeeding in mind? The Najell Pregnancy Pillow includes two integrated nursing pillows. This gives you the possibility to find a good, comfortable position for both you and your baby. When you're out and about, carrying your baby around, we've made it easy for you to breastfeed in the baby carrier. Najell Baby Carriers are all designed to ease access to the mother’s breast. The Najell Wrap can be used skin to skin and is easy to breastfeed in. And with the Babynest SleepCarrier it is easy to fold down one side. Meaning you can breastfeed the baby lying down, without having to move the baby from the babynest.