‘’Breastfeeding is a mother’s gift to herself, her baby, and the earth.’’

Why is Breastmilk Best?

According to WHO, breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival, and only 44% of infants 0-6 months old are breastfed. 

It has antibodies. Breastmilk contains a number of antibodies th
at helpthe baby to fight off infections by supporting the baby’s immune system. These include Immunoglobulin A (IgA), Immunoglobulin G (IgG), Immunoglobulin M (IgM), secretory Immunoglobulin M (sIgM) and Lactoferrin.

Early initiation of breastfeeding within 1 hour of baby’s birth prevents newborn from acquiring infections are reduced newborn mortality. It is no surprise that risk of mortality from diarrhea and other infections can increase in infants who have not been fully breastfed or not breastfed at all. Rooming-in is a practice where the mothers are allowed to breastfeed their infants as many times as they ask for it, and is a pivotal practice for promoting baby’s health. 

What are immunoglobulins?

When the immune system is exposed to a new antigen, such as a virus, it produces specific immunoglobulins that are tailored to recognize and bind to that antigen. Once bound, the immunoglobulins can help neutralize the antigen by blocking its ability to infect cells or by signaling to other immune cells to destroy it.    

It is safe and clean. Breast milk is free from any harmful pathogens and contaminants that can cause infections in infants. It is produced within the mother’s body and is specifically designed to provide optimal nutrition and protection for her baby. 

It has nutrients that the infant needs. It is an important source of nutrition in children aged 6-23 months. It can fulfill the child’s energy need during 6-12 months and can fulfill one-third the requirements of energy between 1 and 2 years. Breastmilk itself prevents malnutrition in developing countries. 

Breastfed children perform better on intelligence tests. Breastfeeding has been linked to improve cognitive development in babies. Children and adults who were breastfed as infants are more intelligent than their peers and perform better in school.

Breastfed children are less likely to get obesity in their elder age. In addition, studies show that it is associated with a higher income in adult stage, ultimately improving economic gains and strengthening families on a national level. 

Mother who breastfeed their infants have a lower risk of ovarian and breast cancer. It is a natural contraceptive helping space pregnancies by inducing a hormonal affect that prevents menstruation. This is called the lactation Amenorrhea method. Click here to read the benefits of breastmilk for the mother. 

To read the benefits of breastmilk for the mother Click here