In the last few weeks I have been privileged to counsel pregnant mothers on the issue of exclusive breastfeeding. While preparing for the counselling session, I took out time to interview mothers who had previously practiced exclusive breastfeeding and mothers who fed their babies with breastmilk, baby formula and water.
I got various opinion from both parties. Women who practiced exclusive breastfeeding testified to the fact that it is the best for babies, their babies had no problems during the teething period, no fever or irritability after immunization, the babies had no cold or diarrhea and their growth rate was fast.
Mothers who never practiced it said, it will not satisfy the baby's hunger, the baby will be thirsty, after the period of the exclusive breastfeeding the baby will not eat and many more .
Based on these, I will like to share with us some of the content of breast milk and their importance to baby.
Water
The breast milk contains about 88.1% water, all other components are suspended in the water. The breast milk contains much more water than a baby needs in the first six months of life that is why exclusively breastfed babies can survive and be healthy.
Carbohydrates
The major carb in the human breast milk is lactose, this supplies needed energy to babies and promote brain development. Another important carb in breast milk is oligosaccharide, this promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the intestine. The healthy bacteria prevent infant diarrhea.
Fat
Fats are responsible for a baby's weight gain, they are also needed for the development of brain, nervous system and vision.
Protein
Breast milk contains two types of protein: whey 60% and *casein 40%. It is in this proportion to aid easy digestion. These protein function to promote healthy growth and development of body tissues and systems.
Antibodies and enzymes
Breast milk is the first vaccine for a baby, it contains antibodies that fight against bacteria, viruses and other disease causing germs. These antibodies also protects babies from common cold, ear infection, vomiting and diarrhea. Enzymes helps to breakdown fat and protein for easy digestion.
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins present in breast milk contribute to healthy bones, eyes and skin. They prevent diseases such as scurvy (bleeding gum) and rickets.
Breast milk contains minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, sodium, chloride, magnesium and selenium. These minerals help to build strong bones, make red blood cells, keep muscles and nerves functioning properly.
Thanks for reading. Its @omooluwa17