Time and again, science has upheld the importance of breastfeeding for both moms and their babies. Breast milk gives the best nutrition for newborns and strengthens the bond between mother and child.
Medically reviewed by Jobelle Ann Dela Cruz Bigalbal, MD · General Practitioner
Time and again, science has upheld the importance of breastfeeding for both moms and their babies. Breast milk gives the best nutrition for newborns and strengthens the bond between mother and child.
In signing the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009 into law, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo made it the state’s policy to promote breastfeeding. The act highlights the importance of breastfeeding by making room in national policy for the establishment of breastfeeding stations, and the promotion of continuous education and training on how to nurse infants.
The advantage of mother’s milk for babies underscores the importance of breastfeeding. Breast milk is considered the best and most complete nourishment for babies for the following reasons:
With the exception of Vitamin D, breast milk contains all the vital nutrients that your baby needs to survive for the first six months. Colostrum, a thick, yellowish fluid that the breasts produce during the first few days after childbirth, is rich in protein and other healthy compounds. It is also low in sugar and helps develop the infant’s immature digestive tract.
The importance of breastfeeding for babies is such that taking it shields the baby from viruses and bacteria. Colostrum is loaded with immunoglobulin A (IgA), which prevents the baby from catching an illness by protecting the baby’s nose, throat, and digestive system.
The mother passes on antibodies she produces when she is ill to her nursing infant. Thus, breastfeeding moms with the flu may provide their babies with the means to combat the disease. Studies also show that babies who are not breastfed are more prone to pneumonia, diarrhea, and infections.
The importance of breastfeeding for babies is seen in how it helps fight:
Breastfed babies are less overweight than formula-fed ones. Each month of breastfeeding lowers your child’s risk of obesity by four percent. Breast milk has gut bacteria that influence fat storage, as well as leptin that controls appetite. Breastfed babies also tend to develop healthy eating habits; they control their milk intake and eat only when hungry.
Breastfed babies have higher intelligence test scores and less behavioral and learning problems as they grow older. This may be due to the physical intimacy between mother and child. Similarly, breastfed preterm babies show long-term brain development.
Moms can also benefit from breastfeeding for the following reasons:
Another importance of breastfeeding include weight loss. After three months, nursing moms burn more fat than those who do not breastfeed.
When a child breastfeeds, the mother’s body produces oxytocin, a hormone that reduces bleeding after childbirth and helps the uterus return to its previous size.
Oxytocin in nursing moms fights anxiety. The hormone also promotes care, relaxation, and mother-child bonding. A study shows that moms who do not breastfeed are thrice more likely to commit child abuse and neglect than those who nurse their baby.
This pause in ovulation and menstruation stresses the importance of breastfeeding in spacing pregnancies. Some women have even used this as a birth control measure, though this may not be foolproof.
Breast milk is free. You do not have to get up in the middle of the night to prepare infant formula, sterilize baby bottles, and warm them. Breast milk always has the right temperature for babies.
The importance of breastfeeding is such that every nursing mom must prioritize her health and nutrition. Make it a habit to:
As babies get their nourishment from breast milk in the first six months of their lives, it is important that the mother produces enough high quality milk. Here are the signs of a healthy breastfeeding baby:
Breastfeeding, especially for first-time moms, can be a challenge. But it is worth considering because of the importance of breastfeeding. Here is how you can go about it:
The importance of breastfeeding is undeniable. It is vital to a baby’s survival and to a mother’s physical and mental health.
Learn more about Parenting here.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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