Why Breast Milk is the World’s Best Food for Your Baby

Breastfeeding is good for the baby and for the mother, say doctors. Studies from across the world have proved it. This is Mother Nature’s wonder food designed especially for the baby. So, please do not deprive your baby of your milk. 

Baby’s power food

Breastmilk is packed with all the necessary nutrients that a new born needs in her first six months. Also, the milk contains disease-fighting agents. That’s why doctors across the globe recommend breastfeeding in the initial six months. You can do it more also. 

What is exclusive breastfeeding?

According to a reputable gynecologist in Noida, your baby needs no formula, water, or solid food for six months after she is born. She only needs her mother’s milk. So, you must only breastfeed her. This is exclusive breastfeeding, which is highly beneficial for the baby in the long run and for you too. 

Studies show that lower respiratory problems, stomach viruses, meningitis, and ear infections are less likely to occur or occur only mildly in babies who are breastfed. 

A comprehensive study conducted at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences revealed that breastfed babies carry a 20 per cent lesser risk of death between 28 days and 1 year of being born. The longer they are breastfed, the lower is the risk. 

The “magic” ingredient of breast milk

Colostrum, which is the first milk secreted by the mother’s breast, contains immunoglobulin A (IgA). This is the magic ingredient, as it contains important antibodies that form a protective layer on your baby’s mucous membranes present in nose, throat, and intestines. 

Your body’s response to virus and bacteria present in you leads to the formation of secretory IgA specific to the pathogen. This creates a shield for your baby depending on the pathogen you are exposed to. 

Breastfeeding effects continue later in life

Positive effects of breastfeeding go beyond the breastfeeding stage. They may continue for life. 

Studies have found that breastfeeding cuts down the risk of developing certain cancers that happen in childhood. Although scientists have not been able to find the exact way the milk protects your child from cancer risk, they are of the view that antibodies present in the milk strengthen the baby’s immune system. 

Breastfeeding can also help to prevent the onset of certain diseases later in a child’s life. This includes type 1 and 2 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and high cholesterol.

How breastfeeding helps to prevent weight gain later in life?

• Breastfed babies learn to stop feeding as soon as they are full. This helps in inculcating healthier eating habits when they grow. 
• Breastfed babies are found to have more leptin hormone in their bodies. According to doctors, this hormone helps to regulate fat and appetite.
• Breastmilk has less insulin than that in formula milk. Insulin triggers fat creation. 
• Babies who are formula-fed are observed to gain weight faster in the first weeks of their life than babies who are breastfed. Doctors link this rapid weight gain to obesity in life later. 

You can consult a good gynecologist in Noida for queries, doubts, and tips on breastfeeding.