Mother’s milk filled with rich antibodies
Although it’s something that happens every day, August is National Breastfeeding Month. The World Health Organization (WHO) says breastfeeding works almost like a newborn’s first vaccine, providing vital antibodies and an immunity boost through the mother’s milk.
“Breastfeeding, whether by the breast or pumping breast milk, is important to an infant, as it provides protection against many illnesses, while also supporting bonding between the mother and baby,” said Teresa DeMoe, lactation consultant.
The following are breastfeeding benefits for new parents to consider:
• Colostrum, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is the thick yellow breast milk that mothers make during pregnancy and just after birth. This milk is rich in nutrients and antibodies to protect baby. Although the baby only gets a small amount of colostrum at each feeding, it matches the amount his or her stomach can hold.
• Breast milk changes as the baby grows. Colostrum changes into what is called mature milk. By the third to fifth day after birth, this mature breast milk has just the right amount of fat, sugar, water and protein to help a baby continue to grow. It is a thinner type of milk than colostrum, but it provides all the nutrients and antibodies a baby needs.
• Breast milk is easier to digest. For most babies, especially premature babies, breast milk is easier to digest than formula. The proteins in formula are made from cow’s milk and it takes time for babies’ stomachs to adjust to digesting them.
• Breast milk fights disease. The cells, hormones and antibodies in breast milk protect babies from illness, such as ear infections, asthma and gastrointestinal infections, among others.
• Breastfeeding is beneficial to mothers, as well. Mothers who breastfeed tend to recover from childbirth faster, and are at a lower risk for developing breast and ovarian cancer.
