Currently, there are almost nine million infant deaths every year. However, breastfeeding saves approximately six million additional deaths from occurring. Every year, the first week of August is observed as “World Breastfeeding Week” which aims at raising awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding.
Breast milk is what your children need at least up until they turn 6 months old. It cannot be duplicated. A mother’s milk is exactly what a baby needs and it also matches 50% of your baby’s genetic material. There are almost 200 components in breast milk where each and every element plays an important role in providing the necessary nutrition to your little one.
For the first six months of your little one’s life, breast milk provides all the necessary calories required and is also a perfect amalgamation of fats, proteins, fats, carbohydrates and fluids required to them. In fact, even when mothers have a poor diet due to unfortunate circumstances, the composition of breast milk is extremely stable and perfect for babies.
Even before the babies are born, mothers start producing colostrum, which is basically thick milk that can be either clear or a little yellowish. This is designed that way by nature that it provides all the necessary ingredients which a newborn requires. It is high in protein, which is a requirement for the first few days, it contains antibodies that protect the little one from infections and it also helps the baby pass the dark, tar-like stools it lets out during the first few days. Therefore, for the first few days mommies must feed their kid often which will also enhance the production of breast milk.
After two to five days of nursing, the milk becomes a little thinner and also acquires a bluish tinge just like skim milk. A mother will also notice that her breasts feel fuller than usual. Now is the right time to nurse your kid frequently as you must avoid it from becoming too full.
As you keep nursing, the milk changes to foremilk, which is low in fat but is high in lactose. Lactose is important for your baby as it helps its development. It is nothing but the sugar of the milk. The foremilk ensures that the baby doesn’t remain thirsty.
The next stage of milk is hindmilk. High in fat, it keeps the baby fuller for longer. During this time remember, let your baby nurse on one breast and only if required you need to switch. Think of hindmilk as a baby’s sweet treat.
Breast milk promotes growth and enhancement of the baby’s digestive system. And it takes approximately 6 months for it to reach its completion. It also prevents vitamin A deficiency which occurs between 12 to 36 months.
One of the many other advantages of mother’s milk is that it is easier on the little one’s kidneys because it contains less salt and protein (but in perfect proportions) it contains. It is also rich in vitamin E and iron that it ensures that your baby won’t go deficient.
Breast milk contains a type of immunoglobulin known as Secretory IGA which is a necessary component that avoids infections and ailments of ear, nose, throat and the GI tract. Throughout the first year, this component is present in breast milk and for it to work, the baby must digest it. Finally, remember, breast milk boosts the baby’s immune system and helps enhance their health.
Now, let’s move on to things you must keep in mind while breastfeeding:
- Before you start feeding your baby, make sure you are in a comfortable position. You can sit on a bed with pillows behind your back; even a rocking chair is fine.
- Once you are settled in, gently touch the little one’s mouth to your nipple for it to latch in because of the rooting reflex.
- As a new mother, eat a balanced diet. If you are confused, you can always consult your doctor to help guide you better.
- Remember, breastfeeding is not just good for your little one but it also helps aid your health and lose the pregnancy weight.
- Drink plenty of liquid as hydration is the key here.
- You must consume at least 500 extra calories per day as that’s the number of calories you might need while feeding the baby.
- Instead of vigorous exercise, opt for brisk and long walks as it is also calming.
- Finally, along with your baby, take care of your physical and mental well-being too as that’s also utterly important.
So, these were a few things that you need to know about the benefits of breastfeeding and tips to remember. We hope it helps you.
The writer is senior consultant obstetrics & gynaecology at Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, Brookefield, Bengaluru.
