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Journalism of Courage
Motherhood is one of the most glorious periods of a woman’s life. However, it can be equally daunting and terrifying as it comes with its own challenges. Among them is the struggle of breastfeeding their newborn baby which can cause sleepless nights and extreme worry if the lactation supply is not enough.
But did you know that many health organisations including the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life. After this duration, breastfeeding should continue alongside the introduction of complementary foods until at least two years of age.
Calling breastfeeding the natural way of nourishing babies, Dr Ritu Sethi, Director, The Aura Speciality Clinic Gurgaon and Senior Consultant- Gynaecology, Cloud Nine Hospitals, Gurgaon told indianexpress.com, “Breast milk contains a perfect balance of nutrients that are essential for the baby’s growth and development, and it also contains antibodies that help protect the baby against various infections and diseases.”
Adding, Sushma Jethmalania, Humm Care Childbirth and Lactation educator said, “Babies can be fed directly from the mother’s breast, or breast milk can be pumped and then fed to the baby from a bottle. Breast milk contains calories, vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients that help an infant grow and develop. It helps your baby fight off sickness and disease.”
Similarly, Dr Amina Khalid, Obstetrician-Gynaecologist took to Instagram to share the various benefits of breastfeeding. Have a look.
Safest food for baby
Besides having the convenience of no prep being required for feeding– the washing and sterilising the bottles, breastfeeding makes sure that the milk reaches your baby directly without any contamination or without the milk getting spoilt.
Concurring, Dr Sethi said, “Breast milk is produced by the mother’s body and is naturally sterile. It does not require any preparation or handling, reducing the risk of contamination from external sources.”
Good for baby’s tummy
The breastmilk has proteins that are more nutritious and easily digestible than the formula milks. Which is why the breastfed babies rarely have diarrhoea or constipation. Healthy tummy, healthy babies.
In a similar vein, Dr Sethi explained that breast milk contains specific antibodies and other substances that can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the babies’ digestive system. This protection helps reduce the risk of gastrointestinal infections, such as diarrhea and necrotizing enterocolitis.
Increase in child’s IQ
A few studies suggest that breastfed babies appear to have a higher IQ. But even if this may not be certain, you can be sure that it definitely develops them intellectually because of the mother-baby close contact and interaction while being breastfed.
Prevents allergies and infections
Breastmilk is full of nutritious vitamins, minerals, antibodies and immunoglobulins which protects the baby against allergic conditions like asthma/skin allergies as well as against various infections.
Agreeing to this, Jethmalania said, “Breastfed babies have a lower risk of asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). They are also less likely to have ear infections and stomach bugs. Breast milk shares antibodies from the mother with her baby. These antibodies help babies develop a strong immune system and protect them from illnesses.”
Develops the tastebuds
Want babies who fuss less over food later in life? Breastmilk kind of passes over a slight flavour of whatever you eat, so you are at liberty of helping your babies develop their taste and likings to whatever food you may like!
How breastfeeding is beneficial for mommies?
Apart from numerous benefits to the baby, breastfeeding is equally important for a new mother’s health. Dr Sethi said that breastfeeding stimulates the release of oxytocin or happy hormone, which helps the uterus contract and return to its pre-pregnancy size. “This can aid in postpartum recovery and reduce postpartum bleeding,” she continued.
Additionally, she mentioned that long-term breastfeeding has been associated with a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers in mothers.
It also promotes bonding between the mother and baby. “Skin-to-skin contact and the act of nursing create a strong emotional connection, fostering a sense of security and comfort for both,” Dr Sethi concluded.
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