BREAST MILK; AN ESSENTIAL MEAL FOR YOUR BABY

Do you know that the word 'Nutrition' is actually derived from 'nutricus' which means "to suckle at breast"? Well, if you don't know, now you know. Breastmilk is a natural meal and the most complete form of nutrition for infants.

Breastfeeding is the most sustainable way to nourish an infant, especially during the first 6 months of life, to prevent malnutrition. This is due to the fact that breastfeeding is the simplest, healthiest and cost effective feeding method that meets up with the nutritional needs of infants. Hence, it is recommended that mothers should breastfeed their babies exclusively for the first six months from birth, and to continue breastfeeding along with the introduction of adequate and appropriate complimentary foods to the child.

Some might be wondering what exclusive breastfeeding really means. Exclusive breastfeeding simply means feeding an infant with breastmilk only, without the introduction of any other food or drink, not even water, except drop of water that consists of vitamin/mineral supplements or medicines that are prescribed medically.

NOTE: Exclusive breastfeeding should be done for the first 6 months of the infants life.
But why is breastfeeding always been emphasized?

Breastfeeding is not only beneficial to the infants but also to the mother. Some of the benefits are highlighted below;

*Breastfeeding an infants is economical. Also, there is no wastage of breast milk.

*Exclusive breastfeeding can reduce the risk of some allergic problems.

*Breastmilk is readily available at the exact temperature. So, there is nothing like rotten/spoilt breast milk.

*An infant that is being breastfed derives a sense of security and belonging in the mother and child relationship from the comfort of being held.

*Breastfeeding also provides the mother a sense of calmness and satisfaction which supports the production of required hormones.

*Breastmilk contains anti-infective and other immunological factors that protects infants from diseases like diarrhoea, small pox, pneumonia, etc.

*Breastmilk is a renewable resource which cannot be adulterated.

*Adequate breastfeeding also have an effect on the cognition (intelligence) of a child.

*In fact, it has been discovered that mothers that breastfeed have a lower risk of breast cancer.

And the advantages can go on and on! This shows that breast milk is not only the best but is a must for infants.

Another crucial part of breastmilk which is essential for an infant is the 'Colostrum'.

What is Colostrum?

Colostrum is the yellowish milk that first comes out of the breast after child birth.
Do you know that in many places in Africa, colostrum is extracted and thrown away as dirt? Yes, this practice is promoted by several traditions and cultures. These cultures and traditions holds it that this yellowish milk that first comes out of the breast is the dirty part of the breastmilk which have to be thrown away. Due to this practice, many infants are deprived of this amazing milk called colostrum. But is colostrum really the dirty part of breast milk?

So as to separate the facts from myths and fallacies, let us consider what colostrum  really is.

During the first 2/3 days after birth, the watery and yellowish milk that comes out from the breast is known as colostrum. It differs from the regular milk. What many mothers don't know is that colostrum is actually the first immunisation to be given to an infant. It contains substances that possess antiviral activities. It also contains antibodies against diseases like polio, measles, small pox, etc. It is also essential for infant's brain development.

You now see that colostrum is not a dirty part of breastmilk, in fact, there is no part of the breastmilk that is dirty. All breastmilk are suitable and consumable for infants. Colostrum is not just OK but is very important for the baby. Do you now see how essential breast milk is to infants?

In view of the valuable roles breastmilk plays on a child's health, World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, continue breastfeeding up to 2 years and addition of complementary foods after 6 months of age. This is regarded as an optimum infant feeding practices.

Breastfeeding is the best way to feed your baby. In fact, frequent suckling, complete emptying of the breast, correct positioning and supportive care are the cornerstones of successful lactation.

Let all mothers strive to continue breastfeeding their infants adequately, as breastmilk is an essential meal for their babies.

REFERENCES
1. Bellamy Carol (2004): "The state of the world's children".

2. Gomez-sanchez M. et al (2004): "The influence of breastfeeding and parental intelligence on cognitive development in the 24-months old child".

3. WHO (1990): "Innocenti declaration; protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding".