Nutritional, protective, and maternal benefits of breastfeeding
THE CONTEXT
Breast milk supplies nutrients and water, supports intestinal development and immunity, and provides benefits to both the infant and mother.
Oligosaccharides and intestinal development
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Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs)* are described as the most abundant solid in breast milk. They are non-digestible carbohydrates that reach the large intestine.
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HMOs act as prebiotics, supporting friendly bacteria and a healthy large-intestinal microbiome, which helps prevent diarrhea and necrotizing enterocolitis.
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Breast milk contains growth factors, enzymes, and hormones. Epidermal growth factor enhances intestinal cell maturation and reduces the risk of allergy in later life.
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Milk lipases increase the digestion of fats in milk.
Nutrients, water, and renal burden
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The source states that the quantity and bioavailability of vitamins and minerals meet the baby’s needs during the first 6 months.
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Breast milk contains 88% water; a breastfed neonate does not require additional water in the first few months, even during summer.
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Its low solute load places less burden on the kidneys.
Protection and infant development
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The source states that a breastfed neonate is 14 times less likely to die of diarrhea and almost four times less likely to die of pneumonia.
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Protective components include secretory IgA, macrophages, lymphocytes, lactoferrin, lysozyme, Bifidus factor, and interferon.
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Breastfeeding is associated with a lower later risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, allergy, ear infections, and orthodontic problems.
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Breastfed neonates have better bonding with their mothers and a higher IQ.
Benefits to the mother
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Breastfeeding supports uterine involution and reduces postpartum hemorrhage risk.
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Lactation amenorrhea is described as providing effective contraception for the initial 6 months.
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Breastfeeding is convenient and time-saving, reduces breast cancer risk, helps shed pregnancy weight, and prevents type-2 diabetes in mothers.