How breastfeeding can prevent obesity, blood sugar and improve memory

HOW BREASTFEEDING PREVENTS CHILDHOOD OBESITY

Breastfeeding has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of childhood and adult obesity. “Breast milk is rich in the hormone leptin which ensures that the body’s system of controlling fat accumulation and body composition is well organised from the early stages of development,” says Dr Vaidya. It tells the brain to reduce appetite and increase energy expenditure and can therefore, programe our appetite from our childhood. Without leptin, your body thinks it has no body fat, which then triggers hunger bouts, excess food consumption and weight gain. “Early exposure to leptin through breastfeeding helps in healthier fat storage and energy balance,” say KEM’s lactation consultants Dr Janvi Shah and Dr Rani Balgude.

BREASTFEEDING UPS IQ

Research has shown how breastfeeding is associated with improved cognitive function and higher IQ scores. Breast milk contains essential nutrients and bioactive components that are vital for brain development. Key elements include long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs), particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is crucial for neural development and cognitive function. “DHA supports the growth of brain cells and the formation of synaptic connections, where neurons communicate with each other. This is fundamental for learning and memory. A Lancet study has shown how those who were breastfed had higher IQ scores at age 8 compared to those who were formula-fed. The study attributed this difference to the presence of LCPUFAs in breast milk, which are essential for brain development,” says Dr Vaidya.

Benefits of breastfeeding

HOW BREASTFEEDING LOWERS RISK OF INSULIN RESISTANCE, CONTROLS CHOLESTEROL

Breastfeeding has been linked to improved insulin sensitivity in infants, which reduces the risk of developing insulin resistance later in life. Breastfeeding is associated with healthier lipid profiles, including lower levels of bad cholesterol (low density lipoprotein or LDL) and higher levels of good cholesterol (high density lipoprotein or HDL). “There is increasing evidence now that breast-fed children have their blood pressure in range as adults, suggesting that it may contribute to long-term cardiovascular health. This works for mothers too. Research in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2015) found that women who breastfed for longer durations had a lower risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes,” Dr Vaidya explains.

REDUCED RISK OF ALLERGIES

Breastfeeding, especially during the first four to six months, can lower the risk of atopic dermatitis (eczema), characterised by itchy and inflamed skin. “The presence of specific proteins in breast milk may help in the development of oral tolerance to various allergens. Not many mothers are aware that breastfeeding can control food allergies that are rampant today,” Dr Vaidya says.