Breast milk provides perfect nutrition for infants, recommended exclusively for at least the first 6 months.
It contains all essential nutrients in the right proportions, adapting to the baby’s needs, especially in the first month.
Colostrum, produced in the initial days, is rich in protein, low in sugar, and packed with beneficial compounds, supporting the newborn’s digestive development.
While breast milk is almost complete, it may lack sufficient vitamin D, necessitating the use of vitamin D drops.
Important Antibodies in Breast Milk
Breast milk is rich in antibodies that help babies combat viruses and bacteria, especially crucial in the early months.
Colostrum, the initial milk, is high in immunoglobulin A (IgA) and other antibodies.
These antibodies form a protective layer in the baby’s nose, throat, and digestive system, providing immunity against illnesses.
Unlike formula, breast milk provides this essential antibody protection, reducing vulnerability to health issues like pneumonia, diarrhea, and infections.
Reduced Disease Risk
Exclusive breastfeeding can significantly reduce the risk of many illnesses and diseases:
Middle Ear Infections: Reduces the risk of infections in the ear, throat, and sinuses.
Respiratory Tract Infections: Protects against multiple respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses.
Colds and Infections: Lowers the risk of serious colds and infections when breastfed exclusively for 6 months.
Gut Infections: Linked to a reduction in gut infections.
Intestinal Tissue Damage: Decreases the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm babies.
SIDS: Reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, especially with exclusive breastfeeding.
Allergic Diseases: Lowers the risk of asthma, atopic dermatitis, and eczema.
Bowel Diseases: Reduces the likelihood of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Diabetes: Lowers the risk of type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Childhood Leukemia: Associated with a reduced risk of childhood leukemia.
Promotes Healthy Weight
Breastfeeding supports healthy weight gain and helps prevent childhood obesity.
Breastfed babies are less likely to become overweight or obese, possibly due to the development of beneficial gut bacteria and the presence of leptin, a hormone regulating appetite and fat storage.
Breastfed babies also tend to self-regulate their milk intake, fostering healthy eating habits.
Potential for Higher Intelligence
Some studies suggest that breastfed babies may have better brain development compared to formula-fed babies.
The physical intimacy, touch, and eye contact during breastfeeding, along with its nutrient content, may contribute to this development.
Research indicates that breastfed babies may have higher intelligence scores and fewer behavioral and learning problems as they grow older.
The most significant benefits are observed in preterm babies, who are at a higher risk for developmental issues. Overall, breastfeeding offers substantial benefits for a baby’s nutrition, immunity, disease prevention, weight management, and cognitive development.
