Breast-feeding is Still Best for Babies - and Moms, too!
September 16th 2007 02:54
Nursing, the preferred method of feeding a newborn, greatly benefits both the infant and the mother. In fact, many health documents recommend that babies receive only breast milk for the first 4 to 6 months. With additional foods, breast-feeding may continue well into the second year of life.
Breast milk contains the right amount of fatty acids, water, lactose, vitamins, trace minerals, and amino acids for an infant. With at least 100 ingredients that formula does not provide - some impossible to duplicate - the milk helps to support the immune system and protects against diarrhea, rashes, allergies, and infections of the ear, urinary tract, and respiratory system. Nursing can also aid in tooth development, improve response to vaccines, and possibly reduce the chances of future diabetes or obesity. One study suggests that children who are breast-fed even do better in school.
Of course, some women are unable to breast-feed and must rely on infant formula. Though second-best, formula is still an excellent source of nutrition for a baby. Since homemade formula does not meet a baby's needs and can be dangerous, always opt for commercial brands that are iron-fortified.
Breast-feeding is good for moms, too. Medical experts list some of the benefits nursing can do for the new mother:
- Prompts weight loss.
- Helps uterus return to normal size.
- Reduces risks of ovarian and breast cancer.
- Enhances bond with child.
However, breast-feeding can cause discomfort or pain. Doctors offer some tips for the nursing mother:
- For a clogged milk duct, massage the area or apply a hot compress. If you also have redness, lumps, or a fever, get medical attention.
- To help prevent sore nipples, position your baby so that the nipple and part of the areola are in the mouth. If the baby has trouble latching on, consult your doctor.
- After nursing, let the nipples air-dry to prevent cracking. If the nipples do crack, coat them with breast milk to soothe them.
Because breast milk contains traces of almost everything a woman eats, a healthy diet is essential if you're nursing. You'll need 1,200 milligrams of calcium daily. Stay away from potentially harmful substances, such as cigarette smoke, artificial sweeteners, and hard liquor. If you have beer or wine, wait at least two hours before nursing. Women who have a disease, carry a virus, or are taking medication should ask their doctor about whether to breast-feed.
Breast milk contains the right amount of fatty acids, water, lactose, vitamins, trace minerals, and amino acids for an infant. With at least 100 ingredients that formula does not provide - some impossible to duplicate - the milk helps to support the immune system and protects against diarrhea, rashes, allergies, and infections of the ear, urinary tract, and respiratory system. Nursing can also aid in tooth development, improve response to vaccines, and possibly reduce the chances of future diabetes or obesity. One study suggests that children who are breast-fed even do better in school.
Of course, some women are unable to breast-feed and must rely on infant formula. Though second-best, formula is still an excellent source of nutrition for a baby. Since homemade formula does not meet a baby's needs and can be dangerous, always opt for commercial brands that are iron-fortified.
Breast-feeding is good for moms, too. Medical experts list some of the benefits nursing can do for the new mother:
- Prompts weight loss.
- Helps uterus return to normal size.
- Reduces risks of ovarian and breast cancer.
- Enhances bond with child.
However, breast-feeding can cause discomfort or pain. Doctors offer some tips for the nursing mother:
- For a clogged milk duct, massage the area or apply a hot compress. If you also have redness, lumps, or a fever, get medical attention.
- To help prevent sore nipples, position your baby so that the nipple and part of the areola are in the mouth. If the baby has trouble latching on, consult your doctor.
- After nursing, let the nipples air-dry to prevent cracking. If the nipples do crack, coat them with breast milk to soothe them.
Because breast milk contains traces of almost everything a woman eats, a healthy diet is essential if you're nursing. You'll need 1,200 milligrams of calcium daily. Stay away from potentially harmful substances, such as cigarette smoke, artificial sweeteners, and hard liquor. If you have beer or wine, wait at least two hours before nursing. Women who have a disease, carry a virus, or are taking medication should ask their doctor about whether to breast-feed.
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