10/29/2020
All About Breasts Part 5
By Natasha Kubis | https://ashevillegynecologywellness.com/about-us/
Breasts Make Nature's Most Perfect Food
It is no wonder that breast milk is referred to as “Liquid Gold”. It contains 100% of the daily fat, proteins, vitamins, minerals, sugars, enzymes, and antibodies that a baby needs to grow, and ward off disease. Human infants are designed to be exclusively breastfed for about 6 months, and then the baby graduates to eat some food, in addition to breast milk. Here are some of the great health benefits of breast milk:
● The first feedings contain colostrum, which delivers a high concentration of antibodies. The laxative effect of colostrum gently clears the baby's intestine, decreasing the chance of jaundice.
● It contains antibodies, enzymes, and white blood cells, which protect your baby from viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections.
● It encourages the growth of probiotics and “good” bacteria in the digestive tract.
● Additional immune components in breast milk provide protection against food allergies and eczema early in life.
● Breast milk provides a defense against some common childhood illnesses such as, vomiting, diarrhea, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, types of meningitis, and can protect against some chronic conditions like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma.
● Breastfeeding lowers the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and increases the effectiveness of immunizations.
● When at your breast, the sucking action of your baby strengthens their oral muscles, facial bones, and supports good dental development.
● Breastfeeding supports brain development and is shown to improve IQ scores later in life.
● Breastfeeding may help prevent obesity and lower your child’s risk of developing diabetes in adolescence and adulthood.
● The hormones released while you feed your little one help to lower your stress levels.