One of the thing I fret most is; going to the hospital for jabs. The wait is usually long and Maya don't like being confined in the waiting area. With more experience in hand, this time, I packed a bag full of activities. Not one, but a few. From drawing, story books, stack up cups, linking chains and a few more. I am proud to say, this is the first time, Maya didn't get cranky from the waiting, and thanks to Dora's book on visiting the doctor, Maya did not cry when she took the jabs. :)
The visit to the hospital also made me realize perhaps I should share out more about the benefits of breastmilk from the talk I gave as well. All these are from the books and web sites I read. Kindly be reminded that these information are not meant to be medical advice. For further details, kindly ask your pediatrician or doctor.
Breast Milk is Best
Breast milk has the perfect combination of proteins, fats, vitamins, and carbohydrates. There is nothing better for the health of your baby. Leukocytes are living cells that are only found in breast milk. They help fight infection. It is the antibodies, living cells, enzymes, and hormones that make breast milk ideal. These cannot be added to formula.
The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, with solids gradually being introduced around this age when signs of readiness are shown. Supplemented breastfeeding is recommended until at least age two and then for as long as the mother and child wish.
Breastmilk is human specific and contains over 200 listed components that are necessary for the healthy growth and development of a human child. About 80% of the cells in breastmilk are macrophages; cells that kill bacteria, fungi and viruses and because of this, breastfed babies are protected in varying degrees from a number of illnesses including:
Acute Otitis Media, German Measles, Asthma, Bronchitis, Influenza, Bacterial Meningitis, Pneumonia, Childhood Leukemia, Crohn’s Disease, Botulism, Allergies, Staphylococcal Infections and Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Human milk also contains factors that enhance the immune response to polio, diphtheria and influenza. Breastfeeding continues to offer health benefits into and after toddlerhood. These benefits include a somewhat lowered risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), increased intelligence, lower risk of childhood onset diabetes, decreased dental problems and decreased risk of obesity later in life, and may possibly include a decreased risk of developing psychological disorders
Furthermore, mothers produce antibodies to whatever disease is present in their environment, in effect, customizing their milk to fight diseases that their babies are exposed to. In this way, it aids in the development of the infant’s immune system.
For example, one drop of colostrum contains approximately 3 million cells; the majority being immune cells.
Breastfeeding also provides health benefits for the mother. It assists the uterus in returning to its pre-pregnancy size and reduces post-partum bleeding, as well as assisting the mother in returning to her pre-pregnancy weight. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of breast cancer later in life.
The following is a brief overview of the components of breast milk and the nutrients they provide for your baby.
Proteins
Human milk contains two types of proteins: whey and casein. Approximately 60% is whey, while 40% is casein. This balance of the proteins allows for quick and easy digestion. If artificial milk, also called formula, has a greater percentage of casein, it will be more difficult for the baby to digest. Approximately 60-80% of all protein in human milk is whey protein. These proteins have great infection-protection properties.
Listed below are specific proteins that are found in breast milk and their benefits:
Lactoferrin inhibits the growth of iron-dependent bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. This inhibits certain organisms, such as coliforms and yeast, that require iron.
Secretory IgA also works to protect the infant from viruses and bacteria, specifically those that the baby, mom, and family are exposed to. It also helps to protect against E. Coli and possibly allergies. Other immunoglobulins, including IgG and IgM, in breast milk also help protect against bacterial and viral infections. Eating fish can help increase the amount of these proteins in your breast milk.
Lysozyme is an enzyme that protects the infant against E. Coli and Salmonella. It also promotes the growth of healthy intestinal flora and has anti-inflammatory functions.
Bifidus factor supports the growth of lactobacillus. Lactobacillus is a beneficial bacteria that protects the baby against harmful bacteria by creating an acidic environment where it cannot survive
Fats
Human milk also contains fats that are essential for the health of your baby. It is necessary for brain development, absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, and is a primary calorie source. Long chain fatty acids are needed for brain, retina, and nervous system development. They are deposited in the brain during the last trimester of pregnancy and are also found in breast milk.
Vitamins
The amount and types of vitamins in breast milk is directly related to the mother’s vitamin intake. This is why it is essential that she gets adequate nutrition, including vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, are all vital to the infant’s health. Water-soluble vitamins such as vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin, and panthothenic acid are also essential. Because of the need for these vitamins, many healthcare providers and lactation consultants will have nursing mothers continue on prenatal vitamins.
Carbohydrates
Lactose is the primary carbohydrate found in human milk. It accounts for approximately 40% of the total calories provided by breast milk. Lactose helps to decrease the amount of unhealthy bacteria in the stomach, which improves the absorption of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. It helps to fight disease and promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in the stomach.
