Why is breast milk considered the world’s first and best food?
The world's first food is breast milk. There is no substitute for it. The health of the child is determined by the breast milk that the baby drinks in the first few days after birth. The greatness of breastfeeding is unimaginable. In order to show appreciation to mothers, the first week of August is celebrated as World Breastfeeding Week.
When and how often should breastfeeding be started and continued?
Breastfeeding should be started within one hour of birth.
Feed the baby 8–10 times a day.
Give breast milk every 2–3 hours.
Exclusively breastfeed for the first six months.
Even after starting other foods at six months, breastfeeding should continue for up to 2 years or more.
What is prolactin and how does it helps in milk production?
Prolactin is a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland in the human brain. It is responsible for the secretion of milk from the mother’s breasts.
When the baby sucks the breast, nerve signals from the mammary glands stimulate the pituitary gland.
This in turn stimulates the mammary glands to produce and secrete milk.
This process is called prolactin secretion.
What are the four important steps for correct breastfeeding positioning?
The baby's body should be well-positioned.
The baby's head, arms, and back should be on the same level.
The baby's entire body should face the mother.
The baby's stomach should touch the mother’s stomach
How does breastfeeding help the mother?
Helps the uterus contract and return to normal size faster.
Burns extra calories, aiding post-pregnancy weight loss.
Lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
Reduces chances of postpartum depression.
Strengthens emotional bonding with the baby.
How does breastfeeding help the baby?
Provides perfect nutrition with the right balance of nutrients.
Strengthens the immune system, protecting against infections.
Promotes healthy growth and brain development.
Offers comfort, security, and emotional bonding with the mother.
What common breastfeeding challenges can mothers face?
Sore nipples
Engorgement (painful breast swelling)
Mastitis (breast infection)
Low milk supply
Most of these can be managed with correct positioning, frequent feeding, and by seeking guidance from a lactation consultant.
What are some vegetables & fruits to increase breast milk production?
Sweet potato
Watermelon
Bitter gourd
Bottle gourd
Suraikkai (Calabash gourd)
Drumstick (Moringa)
Brinjal (Eggplant)
Pumpkin
Carrot
Beetroot
Garlic
What are some nuts & seeds to increase breast milk production?
Almonds
Groundnuts (Peanuts)
Chickpeas
Dried apricots
Dates
Figs
Water
Fenugreek tea
Milk
Eggs
Salmon fish
Sardine fish
Dr. A. Kannan, HOD & Senior Consultant, Department of Paediatrics & Neonatology, Meenakshi Mission Hospital & Research Centre
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