Breastfeeding is the normal way of providing nutrients to infants as an aid for healthy growth and development. The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for newborn basically with the Colostrum, the yellow sticky breast milk produced right after the end of pregnancy.
WHO further suggests exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months of age in infants. Breastfeeding beyond 6 months should be properly accompanied with complimentary foods up to two years of age or beyond. Complimentary food should be adequate for the child's need -- providing sufficient energy, protein and micronutrients to meet a growing child's nutritional requirements. It is important to prepare and serve infant foods in a safe manner to minimize the risk of contamination.
How long should moms breastfeed for? Well, it actually depends. Some mothers would breastfeed their children for a year. There are mothers who continue to nurse children even at the age of 4 or 5. At this stage, children are old enough to enter kindergarten. Some parenting experts state that breastfeeding too long could potentially stunt child development because it may impede a child's ability to self-soothe. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics supports mothers who want to nurse as long as necessary.
Benefits For Babies
The natural milk of mothers provides the best nutrition for infants, containing the perfect mix of vitamins, protein and fat. Breast milk contains antibodies that help infants fight off viruses and bacteria. It lowers the tendency for asthma and allergies. In addition, babies who are breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses and bouts of diarrhea. Kids will have lesser trips to hospitals, as well.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breastfeeding because it is linked to higher IQ scores in later childhood. The AAP says breastfeeding also plays a role in the prevention of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
Benefits for Moms
Moms can benefit, too! Breastfeeding burns extra calories, allowing mothers to lose weight faster. Breastfeeding also reduces uterine bleeding after birth and also lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancer and osteoporosis.
Breastfeeding creates a wonderful bond between mother and child, promoting better relationships in the family. It indeed does wonders!
