Breastfeeding may help prevent risk of stroke for moms
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OAKLAND, Calif. (KTVU) - A new study says breastfeeding not only benefits the baby and bonding - there’s evidence it could have a positive impact on mom’s health later in life.
According to research in the Journal of the American Heart Association, evidence shows breasting feeding at least one child may reduce the risk for stroke in post-menopausal women.
Previous studies have indicated breastfeeding could reduce the rates of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in mothers - but this is the first study to look at the correlation to strokes.
The study included 80,191 participants who were recruited between 1993 and 1998. All of the women in the study had delivered at least one baby and 58 percent of the moms breastfed their babies.
Researchers found the risk of stroke among the women in the study was 23 percent lower for the moms who breastfed. A longer reported length of breastfeeding was associated with a greater reduction in risk of stroke.
“Breastfeeding is only one of many factors that could potentially protect against stroke. Others include getting adequate exercise, choosing healthy foods, not smoking and seeking treatment if needed to keep your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar in the normal range,” said Lisette Jacobson Ph.D., M.P.A., M.A., lead author of the study and assistant professor in the department of preventive medicine and public health at the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita.
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend exclusive breastfeeding for six months, with continuation of breastfeeding for one year or longer. Meanwhile, the American Heart Association recommends breastfeeding for 12 months.
Read the full results of the study here.