The benefits of breast milk
BREAST MILK is prescribed by medical experts as the secret formula for nutritionally healthy babies. Dr Anona Griffith, paediatrician at Gateway Plaza, Old Harbour, says the benefits of breast milk extend beyond nutrition. In fact, she says that the well-being of nursing mothers is also enhanced by breastfeeding.
Below Dr Griffith shares an extensive list of the benefits of breast milk:
1. It is readily available
Breast milk is the perfect milk, as it contains all the fats, proteins and vitamins that the baby needs. It is also more easily digested than formula, and it does not require purchasing or mixing.
2. Breast milk wards off illnesses
As its lungs and immune system are underdeveloped, an infant needs maximum protection against harmful foreign agents. One source of protection is breast milk, which contains antibodies that help your baby to fight off viruses and bacteria.
3. It is at the perfect temperature for baby
Breast milk is at the perfect temperature when fed to the baby directly from the breast. It can even warm up or cool down according to the baby’s own body temperature.
4. Breast milk is produced based on demand
The production of breast milk is directly related to the baby’s demand for milk and the frequency of feeds. It is generally recommended that the mother should nurse the baby frequently in an effort to ensure a constant flow of breast milk.
5. Breastfed babies have fewer ‘diarrhoeal illnesses’
In fact, research shows that breastfed babies tend to ward off most illnesses. When they are fed formula or a mixture of both formula and the mother’s milk, babies can face an increased risk of gastroenteritis and diarrhoea. However, breastfed children have fewer diarrhoeal illnesses and suffer less from other common paediatric conditions such as respiratory tract and ear infections, pneumonia, cold and flu, and bacterial meningitis.
6. Breast milk is a great rehydration fluid
While oral rehydration fluids are used to treat infants suffering from dehydration caused by diarrhoea, colds and flu, breast milk also serves as a very important rehydration fluid. It maintains their hydration level, especially if the babies are fed on demand.
7. It has a long shelf life
Breast milk can remain in the refrigerator for up to three days before it needs to be discarded. It can stay frozen for three to six months before use.
8. Can heal sore nipples
Breastfeeding has its perks, but for the mother fulfilling the infant’s demands, it can also cause her some discomfort since the nipples can become sore or cracked. Breast milk, when applied to sore nipples, has been known to promote healing.
