Breast milk, particularly colostrum is rich in the immunoglobulin IgA, which confers immunity to infants. The lymphocytes and macrophages protect the body against intestinal inflammation. The lactobacillus bifidus in milk aids the growth of intestinal lactobacilli. Infants absorb iron more efficiently from breast milk than any other form of milk. We are aware of the benefits of the breast-feeding, which Ayurveda believes has no parallel. Breast milk is rich in all the vital nutrients and provides the baby with requisite energy for the all round growth. It is a wholesome diet for the newborn, which is easy to digest, enhances immunity, and balances the doshas. Moreover the breast milk is available at the temperature most suited for the infant and is free from all possible sources of contamination.
Apart from the nutritional aspect the process of breast-feeding fosters a bond between the mother and the child, which acts as a reassuring factor for the baby and makes him feel safe in the new surrounding. There can be no substitute of the breast milk. Ignorance of the advantages of breast-feeding and the proper method often leads to discontinuation in most cases.
Basic Facts About Breast Feeding:
The ability of the breasts to produce milk diminishes soon after childbirth, without the stimulation of breast-feeding.
The immunity factors in breast milk can help the body fight off infections.
Breast milk contains vitamins, minerals and enzymes, which aid the baby's digestion.
Breast and formula feeding can be used together.
Advantages of Breast-Feeding:
It is the simplest way to feed the baby.
It increases the period of lactation amenonhoes after childbirth.
Breast milk also contains infection-fighting anti-bodies from the mother.
Breast feeding reduces the chances of infection and increases the immunity of the baby.
The amino acids in breast milk, the building blocks of proteins, are well balanced for the baby. These proteins best aid the baby's intestinal tract.
It's strengthens the emotional bonding between the baby and mother.
