Benefits of Breastfeeding

“Breast is best” isn’t only a catchy phrase that dietitian’s use, but it speaks so much truth. Breastmilk is thing that you can give your baby at the start of their life. Breastfeeding hosts benefits not only to your baby, but to you as a mother.

Breastfeeding benefits to baby

• The first milk known as ‘colostrum’ has immune- boosting properties which helps to protect your baby from getting sick. Colostrum is a thick, yellow liquid which is rich in vitamin A and energy needed by your baby for the best start
• Breastmilk is a complete food for your baby. It contains all the vitamins and minerals needed for your little one. Breastmilk is unique in that the mother’s milk will change according to her baby’s needs. For example, if your baby is sick, the mother’s milk composition will change to ensure that more white blood cells are released into her breast milk
• Breastfeeding creates a special bond between a mother and her child. Oxytocin, also known as the ‘love hormone’ is released when a mother breastfeeds. This hormone makes a mother feel close to her child and strengthens an emotional bond between the two
• Unlike a formula that needs to be prepared, breastmilk is readily available and the perfect temperature for your baby

Breastfeeding benefits to the mother

• Breastmilk is free, so whether the mother is food secure or not, your baby will have complete food security for the duration that they are exclusively breastfed
• Women who breastfeed their children have a lower risk of obtaining breast and ovarian cancers, as well as developing osteoporosis
• Breastfeeding prevents postpartum bleeding, as breastfeeding stimulates the production of oxytocin, which increases blood flow to the uterus, which aids in faster uterine healing
• Women who breastfeed lose their pregnancy weight faster than women who choose not to breastfeed. This is because producing breastmilk uses energy and the process of breastfeeding causes the mother’s body to expend more energy than she did before starting to breastfeed

Is formula feeding ever healthier than breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is the best feeding option for your baby and it hosts more health benefits to you and your baby compared to infant formula. There are however instances where infant formula would be a better option for your baby, these include:

• When your baby has a condition known as, ‘galactosemia’, which is a genetic disorder whereby a baby is unable to digest the sugars, known as ‘galactose’, which is found in breastmilk
• If the child’s mother is taking drugs or drinking alcohol
• If the child’s mother has Ebola

The mother or family of the baby will be counselled by a doctor or dietitian if there are any contraindications to breastfeeding and they will be advised on the type of infant formula that should be used. If you have no contraindications to breastfeeding, but simply wish to formula feed your baby, speak to your dietitian on advice on practical ways to breastfeed if you are busy or working. Your dietitian will also be able to advise you on which infant formula to use should you wish to formula feed your child.

How long should I breastfeed my child for?

It is recommended by the WHO ( World Health Organization) to exclusively breastfeed until 6 months- meaning that your child should only receive breastmilk, no water, juice, tea or solid food. From 6 months and beyond, you can start introducing solids. You may continue to breastfeed whilst your child is on solids until 2 years and beyond.

How to store breastmilk

• Freshly pumped breastmilk can be stored at room temperature for 4 hours
• Breastmilk can be refrigerated at 4°C for 4 days
• Frozen breastmilk should be used within 6 months of freezing, but can be stored up until 12 months, if stored at -18°C or colder
• Thaw frozen breastmilk in warm water and never microwave
• Use any leftover breastmilk within 2 hours of expressing