Breaking the myths about breastfeeding

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Breastfeeding has several health benefits for both, the mother and the baby. We spoke to a few doctors who shared the advantages of breastfeeding the child without fail.

Every year, August 1-7, is observed as Breastfeeding week.

Sayali Sathe, Lactation Consultant, Jupiter Hospital, Pune informed, “Breastfeeding is the most important and crucial part of babies’ healthy nutrition, good digestion, food security, and protection against severe allergies and obesity. Breast milk provides the perfect nutrition to match the baby’s needs for growth and development which is extremely important in the first six months till two years or more”.

BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING TO MOTHER AND BABY

Breastfeeding is essential for the baby’s development as well as the mother’s well-being. Are you aware? Breast milk is nature’s perfect baby food as it has immunity-boosting antibodies and healthy enzymes that can help the baby to stay healthy and hearty. The antibodies passed from the mother to the baby will help to develop a strong immune system and protect them from illnesses. Remember that breast milk is the best source of nutrition for babies.

Know about the advantages of breastfeeding for the mother and the baby. Dr Tushar Parikh, consultant, Neonatologist, Paediatrician, Motherhood Hospital, Pune shares detailed information on how important breastfeeding is.

MOTHERS CAN BREASTFEED ANYTIME

It is an easy source of nutrition for the baby as the mothers can feed their babies anywhere and at any time without worrying about having to mix formula or prepare bottles. When traveling, breastfeeding can be comforting for the babies.

Breastfeeding cuts down the mother’s risk of cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure:
If you are a new mother, and breastfeed the baby every day then it is good for you. Yes, you have heard us here! Doing so can help you to keep various problems like cancer (breast and ovarian), type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure at bay. Various studies also confirm that breastfeeding also protects the baby from leukemia and lymphoma.

HELPS BABIES TO KEEP STOMACH PROBLEMS AWAY

Breast milk will cause less stomach upset, diarrhoea, and constipation when compared to formula. The milk will easily break down when it comes to the babies and there will be no discomfort.

BREASTFEEDING WILL LOWER THE CHANCES OF RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS

It is a no-brainer that babies are susceptible to lung problems during the initial years. Breast milk contains antibodies that protect your little one after birth. Hence, the baby will be able to deal with issues like gastroenteritis, ear infections, and respiratory infections. Furthermore, the incidences of pneumonia, colds, and viruses will also go down in breastfed babies.

BREASTFEEDING IS HELPFUL FOR PREMATURE BABIES

This is so because it can safeguard the baby from necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), sepsis, and severe lung problems.

BREASTFEEDING HELPS MOTHERS TO LOSE WEIGHT

You will be surprised to know that milk production burns about 500 calories per day. Thus, lactating mothers will be able to battle the bulge without any problem.