Discussing the remarkable health benefits of breast milk and breastfeeding!
The 1st – 7th of August marks world breastfeeding. A week dedicated to raising awareness and celebrating breastfeeding in all its forms.
As a Registered Nutritional Therapist specialising in gut health, I have always been fascinated by the incredible nature of breastmilk as well as the amazing health benefits. Then I became a mum, and this interest sparked an incredible desire, resulting in collectively feeding my boys over 4 and half years.
Therefore, In light of world breastfeeding week, I thought I would share some information on what makes breastmilk such as a nutritional powerhouse!
First up, Colostrum, often referred to as "liquid gold," is the first milk produced by mothers - uniquely tailored to meet the needs of new born infants, full of essential nutrients, growth factors and immune supporting properties to nourish and protect the new-born, as well as having a laxative effect to help bubs pass their first poo. Not only does it provide optimal nutrition but also supports the development of a healthy gut microbiome, which is critical for digestion, immunity, and overall well-being.
Then we have breast milk, carefully curated by the human body, providing the ideal balance of nutrients. These nutrients are crucial for growth, brain development, and energy. It contains a combination of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates—that are easily digestible and suited to an infant’s developing digestive system.
Lets dive in!
Protein - Breast milk contains two main types of proteins are whey and casein. Whey protein, which is more abundant in breast milk, is easily digestible and helps in quick nutrient absorption. It also contains bioactive components that support immune function.
Fat - The fat content in breast milk provides essential fatty acids like DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which is vital for brain development and cognitive function. These fats also support the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K.
Carbohydrates - The primary carbohydrate in breast milk is lactose, which provides energy and promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. These bacteria play a crucial role in digestion and the development of a healthy immune system.
Gut Health
Breastmilk can play an important role in shaping a healthy gut microbiome, which is fundamental for digestion, immunity, and even mental health. Breast milk is rich in beneficial bacteria, including Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, which are among the first probiotics an infant is exposed to. These good bacteria colonise the gut, helping to crowd out harmful bacteria, prevent infections, and support healthy digestion.
Breast milk also contains prebiotics, specifically oligosaccharides. These complex carbohydrates are minimally digestible by the infant but serve as food for the beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting their growth and activity.
The combination of probiotics and prebiotics in breast milk supports the development of a resilient gut lining and a balanced immune response, reducing the risk of certain illnesses and diseases.
Immunity
Breastmilk is abundant in immune supporting properties such as Immunoglobulins, known as anti-bodies. Particularly Immunoglobulin A (IgA), which helps protect the infant’s mucous membranes in the throat, lungs, and gut. These antibodies are passed directly from mother to baby, offering protection against pathogens.
It is also a rich in Lactoferrin, which has antimicrobial effects, that helps fight viruses, bacteria and infections
Research shows that breastfeeding can lead to long-term benefits, including a reduced risk of chronic conditions such as asthma and allergies.
Additional benefits
Nutrition aside, the act of breastfeeding can also provide emotional bonding between mum and baby or child and may offer a preventive effect on maternal mental health. The act of breastfeeding stimulates the release of oxytocin, known as the "love hormone." This hormone promotes bonding and emotional attachment, reducing stress and anxiety for both mother and baby. For the infant, this bond creates a sense of security and well-being, promoting a healthy emotional development.
Breastfeeding has been linked to a lower risk of postpartum depression in mothers. The physical closeness and hormonal interactions during breastfeeding may help mitigate some of the emotional challenges that new mums often face.
It is also important the note, that the benefits of breastfeeding extend well beyond infancy, and despite some of the misinformation out there – breastmilk still has incredible benefits regardless of the age of infant or child. Influencing long-term health outcomes for both mum and the young!
Finally, as we celebrate World Breastfeeding Week, it's important to acknowledge that despite being touted as the most natural thing in the world, it doesn’t always come without its challenges (believe me, I too have been there).
So whether you fed for a hour, week, month or 5 years - this deserves to be celebrated!
By supporting those who wish to breastfeed, we can contribute to a future where more babies, children and mothers can enjoy the numerous benefits that breastmilk and breastfeeding offers.
If you want to breastfeed or currently breastfeeding and have any struggles or concerns, there are some amazing resources out there, don't suffer in silence.
I hope you found this helpful x
Additional reading & references
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