Breast milk is often referred to as ‘liquid gold’ and there’s a good reason behind this. The benefits of breast milk towards baby’s health is extremely unique, so much so, there is no other type of milk that can provide the same health benefit to human babies like a mother’s breast milk. The health benefits include, but are not limited to, protecting baby against allergies, obesity, infections, constipation and it’s easily digested.
This is why many moms choose to breastfeed despite some having to tackle challenges such as over or under supply, engorgement, mastitis and embarrassing leak marks. There is no doubt that the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh its possible challenges. As a matter of fact, the World Health Organization recommends mothers to continue breastfeeding until the age of two.
In hopes to raise awareness on breastfeeding as well as encourage mothers to breastfeed, here are 10 interesting facts about breastfeeding!
1.Colostrum is a thick and yellowish liquid that’s rich in nutrients and helps with the development of a newborn’s immune system.
2. Colostrum contains protein that protects your baby’s intestinal tract from birth.The breast milk content changes according to the baby’s health needs such as during growth spurts and illnesses.
3. The breast milk content changes according to the baby’s health needs such as during growth spurts and illnesses.
4. The food a breastfeeding mom eats can change the flavour and smell of her milk.
5.Your breast size does not determine the amount of milk you produce.
6.Breastfeeding moms are encouraged to stay hydrated by drinking about 3.7 litres of water daily as compared to 2 litres for an average adult.
7.Breastfeeding reduces a mom’s risk of ovarian cancer, breast cancer as well as postpartum depression.
8.A newborn baby will be able to identify mom’s unique scent of breastmilk.
9.During postpartum recovery, breastfeeding helps the uterus shrink to its pre-pregnancy size.
10.During breastfeeding, your brain releases happy hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin that will help to ease anxiety and help you to bond with the baby.
