While people may have different opinions or personal choices when it comes to breastfeeding an infant, the fact remains that the mother’s breast milk is the best for a newborn baby. Some of the best gynecologists in Pune state that breast milk provides optimal nutrition for babies. It is also the easiest to digest and can be continued for 6 months, and even when the baby starts eating solid foods, until at least age 1.
Breastfeeding or nursing helps new mothers bond with their babies. As your baby grows the feeding process and timings will change. Your baby may prefer small feeds at frequent intervals or longer feedings and it may take some time for you both to understand the process. You and your baby are unique, even if it is challenging at the start, you will soon learn the needs of your baby and should follow a routine that suits you both the best. The best gynecologist in pune will be able to guide you properly.
Listed below are some of the science-based benefits of breastfeeding, you can take a look at them and book a doctor’s appointment to discuss the benefits before making a decision.
Breastfeeding benefits for the Baby suggested by Best Gynaecologist in Pune
1. Breast milk is full of essential nutrients for babies
Exclusive breastfeeding for at least 6 months of an infant is recommended by most healthcare professionals. Breast milk contains several nutrients in the right proportions for a baby. Its composition even changes as per the baby’s changing needs in the first month. During the first few days of birth, breasts produce milk that has high protein content, is low in sugar, and loaded with other beneficial compounds which cannot be replaced by formula. The milk also helps develop the newborn’s digestive tract.
2. Breast milk contains antibodies
Breast milk is packed with antibodies that help your baby fight off diseases in the early months. Colostrum is present in breastmilk and provides immunoglobulin A (IgA). When the mother is exposed to viruses or bacteria, and starts producing antibodies, it is passed on to the breastmilk and enhances the baby’s immunity.
3. Breastfeeding may reduce disease risk
Breastfeeding may reduce your baby’s risk for many illnesses and diseases, it protects against middle ear, throat, and sinus infections, respiratory tract infection, cold and gastrointestinal acute illnesses. It promotes a healthy gut, prevents allergic diseases, child diabetes and even reduces the risk of childhood leukemia. Formula doesn’t provide antibody protection for babies and makes them more vulnerable to health issues like pneumonia, diarrhea, and other infections.
4. Breast milk promotes baby’s healthy body weight
Breastfeeding ensures that your baby develops in the right manner as per age, promotes healthy weight gain and prevents childhood obesity. Breastfed babies have healthy gut bacteria, which regulates proper digestion and may affect fat storage. Babies who are fed breast milk have more leptin in their systems which is known for regulating baby’s appetite. Breastfed babies also develop healthy eating patterns. You can book doctor appointment to know about this in detail.
5. Breastfeeding may improve child’s brain
There has been a noticeable difference in brain development between breastfed and formula-fed babies. Breast milk has high nutrient content, apart from that breastfeeding involves physical intimacy, touch, and eye contact which stimulates the baby’s brain and they tend to have higher intelligence and are less likely to develop behavioral problems when they grow older.
Breastfeeding benefits for the Mother suggested by Best Gynaecologist in Pune
- Breastfeeding mothers may be able to lose weight effortlessly. Breastfeeding helps burn more calories and you may likely experience an increase in fat burning compared to non-lactating mothers.
- Breastfeeding also helps the uterus contract after it grows during pregnancy. Oxytocin is increased throughout pregnancy and during breastfeeding and encourages the uterus contractions to help it return to its previous size.
- Studies have also shown that mothers who breastfeed generally have less blood loss after delivery.
- Mothers who breastfeed have a lower risk for developing Postpartum depression (PPD) after childbirth.
- Breastfeeding provides you with long-term protection against several diseases, including breast and ovarian cancer. Breastfeeding mothers are less likely to be detected with high blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, and type 2 diabetes.
- Breastfeeding may also pause ovulation for a while which allows you to take a gap between pregnancies.
There are numerous benefits of breastfeeding and the best gynecologist in Pune recommends it for everyone for as long as possible, barring medical problems that may prevent it. Breast milk protects your baby from chronic diseases and illnesses. It saves money and breastfeeding is also good for the mother’s health. No matter what choice you make, your healthcare team can guide you to the right methods and choices.
