Breastfeeding has been known to have numerous benefits for both mother and baby, but did you know that it can also aid addiction recovery?
It may not seem obvious at first, but breastfeeding can provide essential physical and emotional support that can significantly enhance recovery. Here are six surprising benefits of breastfeeding for addiction recovery.
Table of Contents
Breastfeeding can reduce cravings for addictive substances
Breastfeeding triggers the release of dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that make you feel good and reduce stress. When a recovering addict breastfeeds, they experience this natural high, which helps to reduce cravings for addictive substances.
Additionally, when the baby feeds, the mother’s body releases the hormone oxytocin, further reducing cravings.
Benefits of natural bonding and attachment parent-infant relationship
Breastfeeding promotes skin-to-skin contact, which helps the baby bond with the mother and promotes a sense of security. The act of breastfeeding itself adds to this connection and aids in the development of the parent-infant attachment.
This attachment provides a healthy foundation for the baby to grow and develop while also promoting feelings of love and protection for the mother, helping her to feel grounded and content.
Importance of oxytocin in aiding recovery
As mentioned earlier, breastfeeding leads to the release of the hormone oxytocin in the mother. Oxytocin can help with the complex physical and emotional process of addiction recovery.
It can promote feelings of love and trust, increase relaxation, and reduce anxiety, making the recovery process more manageable and less stressful. However, taking help from a Drug Addiction Recovery Information Center is also important if your cravings don’t seem to go away quickly.
Ways breastfeeding helps boost mood and self-esteem
Breastfeeding releases endorphins that create a feeling of euphoria, promoting a sense of satisfaction and wellbeing. The mother may feel a newfound sense of accomplishment, which can boost self-esteem and confidence.
It can also help in alleviating postpartum depression and enhance the mother’s overall mood, aiding in addiction recovery.
Breastfeeding can promote healthier lifestyle habits
When a mother breastfeeds, she is providing complete nutrition to her baby that cannot be replicated through supplements or formula. This process ensures that the baby receives essential nutrients that aid in their growth and development.
As a result, the mother may become more conscious of her food choices and may be more inclined to choose healthier and nutrient-dense meals, leading to greater wellness overall.
Remarkable effects of breast milk on infant brain development
Breast milk has profound effects on the development of an infant’s brain. It is rich in essential nutrients and contains unique properties that promote optimal brain function and development.
The many benefits of breast milk include enhanced cognitive function, enhanced nervous system regulation, and reduced risk of behavioral issues in later life.
This is why it’s more important for mothers to breastfeed their babies in recovery and use aids like Herbal Breastfeeding Support Supplement rather than getting on meds to produce more breastmilk. Breastfeeding can provide the foundation for a healthy and happy future for the infant.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding can offer significant benefits for those recovering from addiction beyond the health benefits of mother and baby bonding. It can provide essential physical and emotional support that can make the recovery process much more manageable and less stressful.
Breastfeeding can also benefit the child, promoting healthy brain development and a stronger bond with the mother. If you are seeking addiction recovery, a robust support system that includes breastfeeding could be helpful.
