The perefct food for your little bundle of joy

Volumes have been written about the benefits of breast milk and breastfeeding and the subject is relevant at all times.

"Breast milk is very important for a newborn and, important as it is for the child, breastfeeding is also a great source of health for mothers," says Dr. Maisaa Al Sulaiman, a specialist in family medicine. , Burjeel Hospital of Advanced Surgery (BHAS). "Breastfeeding mothers can lose weight during pregnancy and protect themselves against breast or ovarian cancer in the future.

"The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of the baby's life, followed by breastfeeding in combination with complementary foods until 12 months of age."

Why is breastfeeding considered vital for babies?

Breast milk keeps the baby healthy and provides all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions. It also protects them against allergies, diseases and obesity. It offers a defense mechanism against diseases such as diabetes and cancer, which prevents infections, especially ear infections that are common among babies. In addition, it is easily digestible; Therefore, constipation, diarrhea and other similar digestive problems are kept at bay. Breastfed babies have a healthier weight as they get older and have a higher IQ score.

Is not it the choice to breastfeed a personal choice?

Yes it is; however, it has been observed that three out of five babies, mostly born in low and middle income countries, are not breastfed in the first hour of life, which puts them at greater risk of death and disease, according to a new United Nations report. According to the same report, newborn babies who breastfeed during the first hour of life are significantly more likely to survive.

Previous studies, cited in the report, show that newborns who started breastfeeding between two and 23 hours after birth had a 33 percent greater risk of dying compared to those who breastfed within one hour. And the risk more than doubled among newborns who started a day or more after birth.

What is the psychological impact?

Breastfeeding creates skin-to-skin contact, which develops a special bond between mother and child. It is essential that babies get in touch with mothers as soon as possible after delivery, as this is the time when maternal production of breast milk, including colostrum, occurs before normal milk. Colostrum is thick, yellowish and produced in limited amounts, but it helps meet the baby's initial nutritional needs. It helps the development of the digestive tract of a newborn, preparing it for the digestion of breast milk. It is also rich in nutrients and antibodies, which is why it is known as the baby's first vaccine.

What are the useful tips for a new mother?

It is important that a new mother breastfeed shortly after birth and with a frequency of 8 to 12 times in a 24-hour period. Hold your baby's skin against your skin and keep your baby with you while you are in the hospital. Do not give a pacifier or bottle until breastfeeding is well established. Only give breast milk and do not try to supplement it with external foods unless it is necessary or recommended by the doctor.

What are some of the misconceptions about breastfeeding?

As a lactation consultant, I find that one of the biggest misconceptions about breastfeeding is the supply and demand aspect of milk production. Keep in mind that the more the baby is fed, the more milk will mate and suck properly, the more milk will be produced. It is a natural process. Mothers should not worry if the baby continues to feed regularly. The offer only pretends to be more and not less.

What are the best foods that can be recommended to ensure a healthy production of breast milk?

There are several foods that can help improve the supply of breast milk. Oats is one of the best foods to increase milk supply. It has a good source of nutrients that are important for breastfeeding. In addition to food, doctors recommend that mothers drink plenty of water and relax well to increase milk supply.

What kind of professional help is available for nursing mothers?

Although breastfeeding offers optimal benefits for the health of the mother and child, some mothers may experience difficulties with the process. Experts at the Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery can help women who have difficulty breastfeeding. Breastfeeding becomes easier if women have good up-to-date information on hand. Knowledge leads to empowerment and gives more confidence.