World Breastfeeding Week News: Breastfeeding is a natural process in which a mother feeds her baby with breast milk. The process is called nursing or chestfeeding. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival.
However, contrary to WHO recommendations, fewer than half of infants under 6 months old are exclusively breastfed. World Breastfeeding Week is held in the first week of August every year, supported by WHO, UNICEF, and many Ministries of Health and civil society partners. The theme for 2024 is Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all. It is important to highlight the various benefits of breastfeeding both for mother and baby. It is safe, clean and contains antibodies which help protect against many common childhood illnesses.
Benefits of breastfeeding
Breastfeeding, being a natural process, offers a wide range of benefits for both, the mother and the baby. According to Dr. Sushil Kumar Singla, Consulting Paediatrician for the Hans Paediatric Program with The Hans Foundation, for infants, breast milk is the ideal source of nutrition, providing a perfect balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals for their proper growth and development.
“It also contains vital antibodies that shield them from various infections, allergies, and chronic diseases by strengthening their immune system. Breastfeeding has been linked to cognitive benefits, potentially enhancing brain development,” Dr. Singla told Financial Express.com.
For mothers, breastfeeding offers several advantages. It aids in uterine contraction, reducing postpartum bleeding and helping the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size, he explained.
“Breastfeeding can contribute to weight loss, as it burns extra calories. It also carries long-term health benefits like reducing the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. The act of breastfeeding releases oxytocin which is a hormone that promotes relaxation and can help alleviate postpartum depression,” Dr. Singla said.
Additionally, the close physical contact during breastfeeding leads way to a deep bond between the mother and baby which develops a feeling of emotional security and attachment between both, he added.