BASSETERRE St. Kitts, July 30th, 2013 -- Breastfeeding is the best way to provide newborns with the nutrients they need. Despite the known health benefits, less than 40 per cent of infants 6 months of age or younger are exclusively breastfed. This immediately puts a child at risk for numerous life-threatening health conditions such as infections, pneumonia and diarrhoea.
In efforts to improve public health, World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated every year from 1 to 7 August to encourage breastfeeding and it’s many health benefits to a child. Breastfed babies are less likely to be hospitalized, suffer adverse reactions to vaccines and have a reduced risk of premature death.
“Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of life. At 6 months, solid foods, such as mashed fruits and vegetables, should be introduced to complement breastfeeding for up to 2 years or more,” says the World Health Organisation.
Breast milk has the perfect mix of vitamins, proteins and fats – everything an infant needs to grow. Breast milk contains antibodies that help a baby’s immune system fight off bacteria and viruses. It has also been shown to reduce the risk of asthma, allergies, ear infections and a variety of respiratory illnesses. Studies have also shown that breastfeeding can reduce a child's risk of developing certain childhood cancers.
Beyond the immediate benefits for children, breastfeeding can contribute to a lifetime of good health. Adolescents and adults who were breastfed as babies are less likely to be overweight or obese. They are less likely to suffer type 2 diabetes and they perform better in intelligence tests.
Virtually all mothers can breastfeed provided they have accurate information and resources available to them. Adequate breastfeeding counselling and support are essential for mothers and families to initiate and maintain optimal breastfeeding practices.
“The key to best breastfeeding practices is continued day-to-day support for the breastfeeding mother within her home and community,” says Jennifer Mourin, World Breastfeeding Global Coordinator.
Breastfeeding also benefits the health of the mother. Exclusive breastfeeding is associated with a natural birth control method that is approximately 98 per cent effective in the first six months after birth. It also reduces the risks of breast and ovarian cancer and one’s risk of osteoporosis later in life.
Breastfeeding is known to burn additional calories and release the hormone oxytocin. These will help a woman return to her pre-pregnancy weight faster and reduce the risk of uterine bleeding. Weight loss after pregnancy reduces one’s risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and a variety of cancers.
A study completed by the National Institutes of Health reviewed over 9,000 study abstracts and concluded that women who didn't breastfeed or who stopped breastfeeding too soon had a higher risk of postpartum depression. Breastfeeding is known to reduce stress levels as most women report feeling more relaxed during and after breastfeeding.
Deciding to breastfeed can also save your time and money. You don’t have to buy baby formula and bottles or worry about water and food-borne illnesses. Breastfeeding can significantly reduce the cost of childhood illnesses and associated medical costs.
Breastfeeding is natural but that doesn't necessarily mean it's always easy or convenient. Don't hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if you need help, support or need any questions answered.
For additional information visit www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org
Dr Cory Couillard is an international healthcare speaker and columnist for numerous newspapers, magazines, websites and publications throughout the world. He works in collaboration with the World Health Organization's goals of disease prevention and global healthcare education. Views do not necessarily reflect endorsement.
Email: drcorycouillard@gmail.com
Facebook: Dr Cory Couillard
Twitter: DrCoryCouillard
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