By Rida Zainab(Department of Nutritional Science GCUF Faisalabad)
Breastfeeding is a cornerstone of every childhood nutrition, offering a myriad of health benefits that extend well beyond infancy. It’s role in nurturing and sustaining a growing baby cannot be overstated.
Let’s unpack the nutritional components that make breastfeeding indispensable. Breast mil contain the ideal balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals necessary for baby’s growth and development.
It adjusts its composition as the baby grows, ensuring they receive precisely what they need. The act of breastfeeding fosters a strong bond between mother and child, providing comfort, security and a sense of connection.
One of the most crucial role of breast milk is its immune boosting properties. It is rich in antibodies, antioxidants and immunoglobulins that provide the baby with passive immunity against a range of infections, including respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses and allergies.
The first milk produced by a mother, known as colostrum, is a concentrated elixir of antibodies and essential nutrient . It coats the baby’s digestive tract, sealing it against harmful pathogens and kick-starting their immune system.
Breastfeeding is not just about benefiting the baby; it also plays a pivotal role in promoting maternal health. Breastfeeding triggers uterine contractions, helping the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size more quickly and reducing the risk of postpartum bleeding . Mothers who breastfeed have a reduced risk of certain health conditions later in life, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and type 2 diabetes.
Breast milk is produced and delivered without the environmental footprint associated with the manufacturing and disposal of formula.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and other international health organizations recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the 6 months of a baby’s life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods for up to two years or more. This recommendation underscores the central role that breastfeeding plays in promoting the health and well-being of both infants and mothers