There’s a popular saying that says ‘Breast is life’ and it’s true because, without breastmilk, most of us wouldn’t be in existence.
Breastfeeding has several benefits to both mother and baby. There are also numerous facts surrounding breastfeeding and this write up aims at ten (10) good facts on breastfeeding and they’re as follows
1. The first breastmilk known as colostrum should be given to the baby immediately after delivery when the mother is stable. This colostrum clears and prepares the baby’s intestinal tract.
2. Every food a mother takes forms part of the breastmilk. This is why mothers are advised to take healthy and nutritional meals, as well as prescribed medications.
3. Breastmilk support brain development of the baby and improves the IQ and memory skill as well.
4. Breastfeeding creates a special bond between both mother and baby mostly due to skin-to-skin. A hormone called oxytocin is released and it lowers stress levels, reduces anxiety, and prevents depression.
5. Breastfeeding helps the uterus to contract and go back to its pre-pregnancy state or normal state.
6. Breastmilk provides antibodies and white blood cells directly to the baby. This helps the baby’s immune system fight off any infections.
7. The size of a mother’s breast doesn’t determine the amount of breast milk that will be produced. Sometimes a small breast can produce more breastmilk than one with a big breast.
8. Exclusive breastfeeding prevents pregnancy within the first six months after delivery. When breastfeeding the child exclusively for 6 months, the hormone prolactin becomes dormant thereby inhibiting ovulation.
9. breastfeeding promotes the baby’s well-being and enhances the effectiveness of immunization.
10. Breastfeeding strengthens the oral muscles and facial bones during sucking.
Breastfeeding has been admired by many females. However, other conditions restrain others from breastfeeding their babies When this happens, adhere to the feeding plan ordered by a medical doctor and the baby will get all the required nutrients as well.
Source: Dora Arthur.
