Breast milk; It is an optimal source of nutrients as it contains all the nutrients a newborn needs for the first six months of life, including protein, fat, iron and vitamins. So today we are going to talk about the contribution of breast milk to child development.
Breast milk protects the baby from infections thanks to the preservatives it contains. Even in extreme heat, there is no need to give the baby water, because breast milk contains enough water and vitamins. The milk ingested by the mother protects the babies from various bacteria and gives them a resilient form.
Breastfeeding is a miracle and your child will benefit greatly from it. It is of great importance for your baby’s physical and mental development.
Importance of breast milk
Let’s take a look at the benefits of breastfeeding together:
- It’s natural, fresh, safe and sterile. Therefore, it always has the optimal temperature for the baby.
- Breastfeeding is easy and quick; The baby does not have to wait for food, and breastfeeding can be done anytime, anywhere.
- It reduces the risk of infections that cause ailments such as diarrhea, urinary tract infections, colds, asthma and some childhood malignancies. Obesity, diabetes and heart disease are less common in breastfed babies.
- It reduces the possibility of eczema and ear infections caused by allergies. It also helps baby’s jaw development.
- Contains more iron than formula (nourished) food, making it easier to absorb.
- It helps in the development of baby’s intelligence, eyesight, neurological system and intestines.
- Breastfed newborns are hospitalized less often than bottle-fed infants.
- For the first six months, breast milk provides all the nutrients a newborn needs.
- It is constantly changing according to the growth and nutritional needs of the baby.
- Breastfed newborns do not have constipation and their stools are less odorous than bottle-fed infants.
Additionally, breastfeeding is the most effective approach for a newborn to develop a loving bond with their mother. Breast milk protects the newborn from diseases such as diarrhea and respiratory infections, but it also plays an important role in the development of the jaw and teeth. Children fed with breast milk are more resistant to diseases such as asthma, allergies and childhood diabetes. Since it contains enough iron, anemia is not observed in babies fed with breast milk. Also, breastfed babies have a lower risk of diaper rash, gastrointestinal pain, and constipation.
How long should it be given?
When should breast milk be taken? We can answer the questions for dear mothers and mothers-to-be who are wondering how long it should be taken: The best and most natural food for babies is the milk that is taken by the mother. For 6 months, only breast milk can meet the needs of all healthy children born in the normal week of birth. After 6 months, breastfeeding should be continued for at least 1 year with appropriate complementary foods.
When it comes to breastfeeding, how often should you do it? If your baby is hungry, breastfeed. breast milk It is digested quickly, so it goes through the stomach quickly. This allows you to breastfeed your baby every 1-2 hours at first. After 1-2 months, your baby will start sleeping more at night and suckling intervals will become longer.
How to tell if your baby needs to eat:
When the baby is hungry, it shows that he is interested in your breast. It moves with the suction. Do not let your baby sleep without proper sucking for about 2-3 weeks. If the baby refuses to feed and 3-4 hours have passed since the last feeding, wake him up and feed him.
How does milk secretion increase?
Consuming at least 10-12 glasses of water per day increases milk secretion. Scientific studies show that some foods and plants in particular increase breast milk. One of them is fennel. fennel; It is a plant derived from dill and increases milk secretion. Nettle, basil and rosemary are other herbs that increase milk secretion. At the same time, cumin and black sesame can be consumed to increase breast milk.
Apart from that, the following things can be counted among the points that you should pay attention to when breastfeeding:
- Contact your doctor if you need medication. Some medicines can be dangerous for your child.
- If you need to take medication, be sure to take it immediately after you stop breastfeeding.
- Never consume alcohol while breastfeeding.
- Do not smoke near the baby and do not allow smoking near the baby.
Our previous post Can You Have Sex During Pregnancy? What Are The Advantages? in our article advantages, baby ve Can You Have Sex During Pregnancy? information about.
